The study proposed in this paper describes the evolution of PhD subjects within the computer science laboratory of Lille University (France) between its creation in 1958 until 2012. These evolutions are studied through two axis: the diversification and specialization of PhD subjects and the research directors genealogy. The first dimension illustrates paths that have been explored and shows the transition from fundamental researches on both hardware and languages towards more applied subject in emerging fields. The second dimension illustrates the development of a computer science laboratory from its mathematical roots in numerical analysis, its evolution towards computer science problematics and the institutional recognition of this new discipline within the University. Finally, some comparison with existing studies in computer science research themes evolution is done. This research is part of an ongoing effort to preserve the CS historical resources that has started in november 2012 and is made possible thanks to the involvement of retired colleagues. The primary sources for this work is the PhD listing and the interviews of retired colleagues directly involved with most of the PhD discussed in this paper.

NB: This works is in progress. We understand that this description is too succinct but we wanted to have some feedback on the interest that such study could have for the HAPOC community.