Three candidates left in race to lead Sciences Po

Long succession process for directorship to draw to close in November

Three candidates are to go forward as potential directors of the Institute of Political Studies (IEP), better known as Sciences Po, one of France’s most prestigious grandes écoles (specialist higher education institutions outside the university system).

The trio, Olivier Faron, Christine Musselin and Mathias Vicherat, were whittled down from a line-up of 23, and will now face a vote by the two institutions that govern Sciences Po, the National Foundation of Political Sciences (FNSP) and the IEP Council. If the two groups settle on a candidate, they will then forward their proposal to Frédérique Vidal, minister for higher education, research and innovation, on 10 November. The appointment will then be made, subject to a presidential decree and order from Vidal.