Luís Oliveira e Silva, professor and researcher at Técnico, is one of the three new Fellows elected by the Council of the European Physical Society (EPS).

The European Physical Society distinguishes the EPS members who have made outstanding contributions in the field of physics. Professor Luís Oliveira e Silva, visibly happy, said that this distinction is “the result and the impact of all the work that has been developed at Técnico and in the Department of Physics, as well as by my working group and my centre”.

Professor Luís Oliveira e Silva, the only Portuguese among the 85 fellows, was elected for his contributions on laser-plasma interactions and related areas. According to the professor, “the international recognition of the contributions and the relevance of the research carried out” are the most relevant criteria to be elected a Fellow.

This is not the first time that the IPFN researcher sees his work recognised. He was honoured as Grand Officer of the Order of Public Instruction in 2016, he received two ERC Advanced Grants (AdG 2015 and AdG 2010) and he was awarded the UTL’s Scientific Prize in 2011. According to professor Luís Oliveira e Silva, “awards and distinctions are an additional stimulus” and not the main motivation that has been guiding his work. “My main motivations are the curiosity about my research topics and the success of my students and colleagues with whom I have the pleasure to work”, said the professor.