The modified precursor Zr(nOPr)3OOMc (McOOH = methacrylic acid) has been successfully used to synthesize organically modified ceramics (ORMOCERs) via a sol-gel process and via ultraviolet (u.v.) curing. The precursor and the ORMOCERs were investigated by the measurement of X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) and by electron microscopy. A model for the structure of the precursor is proposed. In the case of the inorganic synthesis of the ORMOCER, a first indication of a bond of the type Zr-O-Si was found.