Naples – The worlds of science and Italian politics have lost one of their most authoritative and multifaceted figures. Luigi Nicolais, a pivotal figure who combined rigorous academic research with civic engagement at the highest levels of government, has passed away at the age of 83.
An internationally renowned chemical engineer and professor emeritus at the Federico II University of Naples, Nicolais leaves an unfillable void at that delicate intersection between laboratory and public administration.
A career between molecules and reforms
Luigi Nicolais wasn't just a man of numbers and formulas. His institutional career saw him at the forefront of the Prodi II government, where he served as Minister for Reforms and Innovations in Public Administration. His mission was clear: to modernize the state apparatus through the lens of technological efficiency.
His dedication to science found its highest expression in his presidency of the National Research Council (CNR), which he led from 2012 to 2016. During those years, Nicolais worked to put research back at the center of the political agenda, aware that the country's future depended on its ability to innovate.
The stages of a constant commitment:
Academy: Prominent professor at the Federico II University of Naples, mentor to generations of researchers.
Campania Region: Councillor in the Bassolino administration (2000-2005), where he laid the foundations for the regional technology districts.
Parliament: Member of Parliament from 2008 to 2012, bringing the concerns of the scientific community to the benches of Montecitorio.
Recent years: Research Advisor to the Ministry of Universities, maintaining an active role until the end.
The condolences of the institutions
The news of his passing has sparked deep sorrow across the country. The Minister of Universities and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, remembered him with words of great respect, emphasizing not only his professional value, but also his human value.
We will miss his talent and timeless intelligence, but also his rare kindness. Luigi Nicolais was an extraordinary scientist who best represented Italy in European innovation organizations. — Anna Maria Bernini, Minister of Universities and Research
Francesco Emilio Borrelli, MP for the Green and Left Alliance, also paid tribute to the professor, calling him "a true example of politics at the service of society," recalling how Nicolais was a point of reference not only for his colleagues, but especially for his students.
The scientific and human legacy
Nicolais was not just a bureaucrat or career politician, but a pioneer in materials science. His research helped position Italy among segments of global excellence, demonstrating that innovation is not an abstract concept, but a process that requires vision, patience, and, as he himself liked to say, "passion and imagination."
With his passing, Naples loses one of its most illustrious sons, and the country loses a servant of the state who has always believed that progress, to be such, must be guided by competence and humanity.
Source EDITORIAL TEAM
Comments (1)
It's very sad that a person like Luigi Nicolais has passed away. He did so much for Italian science and politics. His career was an example of dedication and commitment. We will greatly miss his contributions.