What duties did Jean Le Rond d’Alembert perform as permanent secretary of the French Academy?

As permanent secretary of the French Academy, Jean Le Rond d’Alembert was responsible for continuing the Histoire des membres de l’Académie. This duty involved writing the biographies of all members who had died between 1700 and 1772.1

He fulfilled this role by delivering Éloges (tributes) to his predecessors during the academy's public sessions. These addresses provided insight into his perspectives on contemporary issues and reflected his commitment to fostering a connection between the institution and the public. Additionally, his position as secretary entitled him to an apartment at the Louvre, where he resided later in his life.1