Ionel Haiduc, the Romanian chemist who led the Romanian Academy from 2006 to 2014, died on September 29, 2026, in Cluj-Napoca. He was 89 years old.
Haiduc was born in Cluj-Napoca on May 9, 1937. He studied at Babeș-Bolyai University, where he later taught and worked as a university professor. His research focused on organometallic chemistry, and he became known for contributions in that field.
He was elected to the Romanian Academy and the Academy of Sciences of Moldova. His scientific work earned him recognition and awards, including the Order of the Star of Romania and the Order of Honour.
Haiduc’s death was confirmed by the Romanian Academy in a statement issued on September 29. The academy said he “made significant contributions to Romanian science and academia,” but did not specify the cause of death.
During his tenure as academy leader, Haiduc was involved in promoting scientific research and international cooperation. His leadership period was marked by efforts to modernize Romanian scientific institutions.
He was also active in the broader scientific community, participating in conferences and publishing extensively. His work on organometallic compounds was published in numerous scientific journals and cited by peers worldwide.
Babeș-Bolyai University paid tribute to Haiduc, noting his long academic career and role as a mentor to many generations of students. The university said he “shaped the development of chemistry in Romania” during his decades of teaching and research.
Haiduc’s passing was met with condolences from various scientific organizations and political figures. Romanian President Klaus Iohannis expressed “deep regret” over his death and praised his contributions to science and education.
His awards include the Order of the Star of Romania, conferred in 2008, and the Order of Honour, awarded in 2014. These honors underscore his status as a leading figure in Romanian science.
Despite his age, Haiduc remained a respected voice in the scientific community. Colleagues noted his dedication and the influence he had on the growth of chemistry research in Romania.
Cluj-Napoca, his hometown, has seen an outpouring of memories from former students and colleagues. Many recall his strict but inspiring teaching style and his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.
Haiduc’s death leaves a gap in Romanian academia that will be hard to fill. His legacy as a scientist and educator remains significant in the context of Romanian scientific history.
He is survived by family members and a wide network of former students and colleagues. The Romanian scientific community continues to mourn the loss of a figure who helped shape the country’s research landscape for decades.
According to Dead-People.