The IUCr is the global scientific organisation dedicated to advancing crystallography and structural science. Founded in 1947 and a member of the International Science Council, the IUCr promotes international collaboration through scientific publishing, reference resources, international standards, education, conferences, awards and outreach. Guided by integrity, diversity and collaboration, the IUCr exists to advance structural science globally and empower a thriving structural science community, connecting researchers, institutions and scientific communities worldwide to accelerate discovery and the understanding of the atomic structure of matter.
Governance
Committees, Statutes and Bylaws
The IUCr is governed through its General Assembly, Executive Committee, Finance Committee, Commissions and Advisory Bodies. Together they provide strategic leadership, oversee governance and finance, and support the Union's publishing, education, outreach and scientific programmes while ensuring transparency and accountability.
History
Over 75 years of advancing structural science
Founded in 1947, the IUCr has spent more than 75 years advancing crystallography and structural science. Its history reflects the evolution of the field from a specialist discipline into a cornerstone of modern research across chemistry, biology, physics, materials science, medicine and the Earth sciences.
Members
Adhering bodies and Associates of the Union
The IUCr is a global network of adhering bodies, National Committees, Regional Associates and scientific communities. Together they strengthen international cooperation, represent crystallography at national and regional levels, and support scientific exchange, education and professional development across the world.
Commissions
Commissions make up the heart of the Union
Commissions bring together international experts across every major area of crystallography and structural science. They develop scientific standards, organise workshops and meetings, encourage collaboration and provide leadership in research, education, data, nomenclature and emerging scientific fields.
People
Join the World Directory of Crystallographers
The IUCr supports a worldwide community of crystallographers and structural scientists through publications, conferences, awards, education and outreach. The World Directory of Crystallographers helps researchers connect with colleagues internationally, fostering collaboration and strengthening the global structural science community.