Michael Solar | Nuclear Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Michael Solar | Nuclear Science | Best Researcher Award

Head of the Van de Graaff Accelerator Laboratory at Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics Czech Technical University | Czech Republic

RNDr. Michael Solar, CSc., is a distinguished physicist with over five decades of experience in semiconductor physics and nanotechnology. He began his scientific journey at Charles University, specializing in solid-state physics. After graduating, he held pivotal roles at the VÚST A.S. Popov Research Institute, advancing semiconductor microwave component technologies. He joined the Czech Technical University in Prague, contributing to teaching and research, especially in collaboration with CERN through the ATLAS-SCT and RD50 programs. Currently, he leads the Van de Graaff accelerator laboratory and participates in international projects involving nanotechnologies and radiation-hardened devices. His work also includes standardization efforts with CEN and ISO in nanotech fields. Known for his commitment to education and cross-border scientific cooperation, Dr. Solar has played a major role in elevating Czech contributions to global research.

Professional Profiles

Scopus

Education

Michael Solar began his academic path at the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, Charles University, where he graduated with a specialization in solid-state physics focused on semiconductors. He earned the RNDr. degree (Doctor of Natural Sciences) through rigorous postgraduate studies. Later, he pursued external doctoral studies and earned the CSc. (Candidatus Scientiarum) degree, defending a dissertation on the technology of semiconductor microwave components, specifically Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor (MIS) structures. His academic background provided deep insight into materials science, thin films, and semiconductor device physics. This strong theoretical and experimental training has enabled him to make long-term contributions in nano-scale material preparation, measurement, and structural design. His educational achievements underpin his influential work in research institutions and universities, particularly in projects intersecting solid-state physics, radiation-resistant devices, and nanotechnologies.

Experience

Dr. Michael Solar began his career at the A. S. Popov Research Institute for Communication Technology (VÚST), where he held roles ranging from senior technologist to division director. There, he led a team developing thin films and semiconductor microwave technologies. Following the institute’s closure, he transitioned into private sector leadership before joining Czech Technical University in Prague. At the university, he served as assistant professor, research team leader, and national coordinator for CERN’s ATLAS-SCT and RD50 collaborations. He later became head of the Van de Graaff accelerator lab and led Czech involvement in neutron detector research with JINR Dubna. His efforts include major European projects like NANOSTRAND under the FP6 framework and contributions to international standardization in nanotechnology. His experience spans academia, applied research, and international scientific diplomacy, making him a key figure in Czech and European physics communities.

Research Focus

Dr. Michael Solar’s prestigious positions and international roles reflect broad professional recognition. He has been entrusted with coordinating Czech participation in internationally significant projects such as CERN’s ATLAS-SCT and RD50, and JINR Dubna collaborations—responsibilities typically assigned to highly respected experts. His leadership in the Czech Technical Committee TNK 144 and representation in European and international standardization bodies (CEN and ISO) for nanotechnologies further indicate the scientific community’s trust in his expertise. Additionally, his appointment as head of the Van de Graaff accelerator laboratory and his role in multi-institutional grants like NANOSTRAND signify high-level acknowledgment of his capabilities. His fluency in multiple languages and capacity to lead teams in international contexts also underscore his standing as a valued and versatile contributor to global research initiatives.

Publication top Notes

Title: Cross sections of the Zr-91(n, α)Sr-88 reaction in the 3.9–5.3 MeV neutron energy region
Year: 2022
Citations: 3

Conclusion

Dr. Michael Solar stands out as an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award, owing to his long-term scientific leadership, international collaborations, and technical contributions to semiconductor physics and nanotechnology. His work spans foundational research, practical engineering, and standards development, all of which have influenced both academic and industrial domains. Awarding him would recognize not only past achievements but also the depth of interdisciplinary expertise he continues to offer to the global scientific community.