Obituary for Professor Vladimir Fortov
07.12.2020 |
The world has lost an outstanding and devoted scientist, which has left a legacy in science and particularly strengthened GSI and the FAIR project through his staunch support. The GSI/FAIR management is saddened by the news that academician Vladimir Fortov passed away on 29 November 2020 and sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
He was a renowned researcher in the fields of thermal physics, shock waves, and plasma physics, with a particular focus on energy generation. As such, he held a lot of important positions in Russia, e.g., as director of the Institute of High-Temperature Physics, Research Minister and member and president of the Russian Academy of Sciences. At the same time, he fostered international relations and received many international awards and recognitions. For his contribution to the partnership with German universities, the Max-Planck society and the Helmholtz association, he received the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 2006 and among the honorary PhDs he received one was awarded to him by the University of Frankfurt. Despite his workload, he was a regular visitor and supporter of GSI/FAIR and served on its committees for a long period.
Vladimir Fortov was a key figure in our scientific field, a warm-hearted and reliable partner for GSI/FAIR and a good friend. We will miss him very much! (GSI/FAIR)
