Pierre Le Beux was a French university professor and visionary researcher who played a decisive role in establishing medical informatics as a scientific and academic discipline in France. He was known not only for his intellect but also for his humor, mischief, and unwavering positivity, especially in the face of adversity. François Grémy, the French founder of medical informatics, famously said of him that he was astonishing — “he dreamed in Fortran!”
After joining the University of Technology of Compiègne in 1975, he moved to the University of Paris V in 1982, before arriving in Rennes in 1988, where he became part of the Department of Medical Information (DIM) at the University Hospital of Rennes (CHU). In 1993, he succeeded Professor Lenoir as head of the department. As Professeur des Universités – Praticien Hospitalier (PU-PH), he founded the Laboratory of Medical Informatics (LIM), which he directed for many years, leaving a lasting mark on research and education at the University of Rennes.
Pierre Le Beux authored numerous scientific publications and books. His work contributed to the advancement of hospital information systems, artificial intelligence, and expert systems applied to healthcare. His vision also extended to education: in Rennes, he created the first university programs in medical informatics in France — initially a DESS and later Master’s degrees — training generations of students, researchers, and professionals who now shape the digital transformation of healthcare.
In 2003, he organized the Medical Informatics Europe (MIE) conference in Saint-Malo (France), remembered by all participants not only for its scientific quality but for the unforgettable Gala dinner. Instead of the traditional Gala Dinner, he invited attendees on a sailing trip along the Breton coast. The sea turned unexpectedly rough, and everyone returned soaked to the bone — but laughing and exhilarated. I especially remember when he warmly introduced me to the EFMI family and explained I would be succeeding him as the representative of France.
Those who worked with him remember his sharp intellect, playful wit, and unfailing optimism. He had a unique ability to bring people together — clinicians, engineers, and scientists — around new ideas with kindness, humor, and enthusiasm.
Pierre Le Beux will be remembered as a passionate professor, a visionary researcher, and a colleague of extraordinary humanity and wit. Through his teaching, research, and joyful leadership, he helped shape the modern landscape of medical informatics in France and beyond. His legacy endures not only in institutions and publications, but also in the laughter, friendship, and inspiration he left behind.
Brigitte Séroussi
Representative of France at the EFMI Council
French Association of Medical Informatics