The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (National Center for Scientific Research) is a public organization under the responsibility of the French Ministry of Education and Research. br Founded in 1939 by governmental decree, CNRS has the following missions: br - To evaluate and carry out all research capable of advancing knowledge and bringing social, cultural, and economic benefits for society. br - To contribute to the application and promotion of research results. br - To develop scientific information. br - To support research training. br - To participate in the analysis of the national and international scientific climate and its potential for evolution in order to develop a national policy.