The International Union of Crystallography (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 brings researchers and scientific communities together through publishing, reference resources, international standards, education, conferences, awards and outreach.
Following the IUCr’s 75th anniversary celebrations in 2023, members of the community helped review the Union’s purpose, vision and values. Contributions from two surveys and a workshop at the 2023 IUCr Congress in Melbourne informed the statements that now guide its work.
Our purpose
To advance structural science globally
Our vision
To empower a thriving structural science community
Our values
- We exemplify scientific excellence and rigour
- We operate responsibly, sustainably, ethically and with integrity
- We are diverse, inclusive and welcoming to all
- We are future-focused and innovative
- We collaborate widely and champion the next generation
The IUCr puts these commitments into practice through its publishing, scientific standards, outreach, and support for meetings, workshops and schools. Together, these activities help people share knowledge, build connections and advance understanding of the 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.