Lithuanian honorary doctor analyses spectra from stars

The citation states that: ‘Professor Gaigalas displays a scientific seriousness and enthusiasm that is a source of inspiration for doctoral students and colleagues.’

... right now, there are more ideas than we have time to implement. However, as far as I am concerned, I will do my best to make these common ideas come to fruition.

Professor Gediminas Gaigalas

“What distinguishes Gediminas Gaigalas as a researcher is his deep knowledge of his field and how incredibly dedicated he is,” says Per Jönsson, professor of applied mathematics and associate professor of physics at Malmö University.

Gaigalas has been collaborating closely with several researchers in atomic astrophysics at the Faculty of Technology and Society for over 30 years. Together, they have developed computational programs for atoms and ions that are used by a large number of research groups in laser physics, astrophysics, and nuclear physics.

“Our research in atomic astrophysics is based on combining experimental and calculated data for atoms and ions to analyse spectra from stars and gain knowledge about how, for example, superheavy elements are created in collisions between neutron stars. Professor Gaigalas and his research group have established themselves as leading experts in this field and we look forward to far-reaching collaborations,” adds Jönsson.

“When I first heard the news, I must say I was very surprised. But now that it has sunk in, I am just happy and proud,” says Gaigalas, adding:

“I know that Malmö University is a young, dynamic, and fast-growing Swedish university. My first visit took place in 2007; since then, I have visited many times within the framework of Erasmus exchange programmes and various projects, and each time I have seen the University develop into an increasingly interdisciplinary university.”

He first met Professor Jönsson at a conference in Poland in 1991; their scientific collaboration started spontaneously and has evolved.

“The further we go, the more intense it becomes. And right now, there are more ideas than we have time to implement. However, as far as I am concerned, I will do my best to make these common ideas come to fruition, no matter how much time and effort is required, no matter how fast time passes.

“I hope that this close cooperation will lead to more joint scientific publications and exchange of ideas with students and young researchers at Malmö University in the framework of Erasmus exchange programs, postdoc programmes and other exciting projects,” adds Gaigalas.