Founder of the new branch of semiconductor physics and electronics, Academician Zhores Alfyorov is celebrating his 80th birth anniversary on March 15th. The ability of speaking about physics in simple phrases is characteristic of this prominent Russian scientist, whose book "Physics and Life" is popular among both specialists and ordinary people.
Winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics, Zhores Alfyorov is also vice-President of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Chairman of the Presidium of St. Petersburg's Centre of Science, and a Russian State Duma Deputy. It is hardly possible to find another such an eminent scientist and outstanding statesman, like Alfyorov.
Colleagues speak about Zhores Alfyorov gladly and with deepest respect. At present he is involved in developing nanotechnologies, says Professor Oleg Belyi, Doctor of Engineering, who has been acquainted with Zhores Alfyorov for over 30 years:
"As far as this issue is concerned, Alfyorov is the leader of the Academy of Sciences. He intends to systematize the implementation of important and expensive studies, as well as to unite nanotechnologies to use the new achievements also in science, medicine and other spheres. He is actually forming a new scientific field".
Zhores Alfyorov, who is also promoting science among the youth, established the Education and Science Foundation to support gifted students. The Academician isn't indifferent to the future of Russia and wishes the talents to stay in their homeland, Professor Belyi goes on to say:
"Alfyorov is also attempting to create the so-called "Silicon Valley", like the Americans did. He has been working in the United States for many years and his experience will surely prove useful in this respect. He is completely aware of how this should be arranged".
Zhores Alfyorov is a vivid all-round person, interested in culture, sports, and reading. Acquainted with numerous cultural figures, such as Mariinsky Theatre director Valery Gergiyev, Professor Alfyorov has also a good understanding of music.
Alfyorov is an honorary citizen of St. Petersburg, where people, meeting him in the streets, always shake his hand, which is a sign of respect not only for his contribution to science, but also for his personal qualities and honesty, says Professor Oleg Belyi.
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