We are proud to announce that Dr. habil. phys. Juris Purāns, leading researcher and Head of the Thin Films Laboratory at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL), has been awarded the Latvian Academy of Sciences (LAS) Grand Medal for achievements in science.
Juris Purāns is one of Latvia’s most prominent scientists, with an invaluable contribution to the development of synchrotron radiation research in the country. He has long championed the advancement of this field by establishing the EXAFS Laboratory and the Thin Films Laboratory, both of which have fostered collaborations with Latvian industry and attracted numerous international projects. Under his leadership, ISSP UL has developed a globally recognized research centre focused on the applications of synchrotron radiation.
In addition to his scientific work, Professor Purāns has played an active role in educating the next generation of scientists – he has lectured at the University of Latvia and held visiting professorships in France, Italy, and Switzerland.
The LAS Grand Medal is the highest annual award given by the Academy to Latvian and/or foreign scientists for outstanding creative achievements. Nominees are recommended by full, honorary, and foreign members of the Academy, as well as its departments, while the final decision is made by the LAS Senate. To date, 64 distinguished individuals have received this honour, and we are proud to now count Juris Purāns among them.
Full article (in Latvian) in the May 26, 2025 issue of The Science Bulletin
