Professor at Institute of Nuclear Physics PAS | Poland
Prof. Jerzy Dryzek is a renowned physicist specializing in solid state physics and positron annihilation spectroscopy, with over four decades of academic and research experience. A pioneer in experimental physics in Poland, he has played a central role in developing advanced laboratory techniques in the field, particularly at the Institute of Nuclear Physics PAN in Kraków. His extensive international collaborations and leadership in scientific projects underscore his lasting influence in materials science and nuclear physics.
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📚 Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Dryzek embarked on his academic journey with a Master’s degree from the Academy of Mining and Metallurgy in Kraków (1975–1980), where he focused on the “Technology of thin films.” He simultaneously pursued another Master’s in Nuclear Physics from the Jagiellonian University in Kraków (1977–1981), conducting a thesis on the “Measurement of the positron lifetime in silver films.” His deep interest in positron-related phenomena led to his Ph.D. (1981–1986) in Solid State Physics, with a dissertation titled “Electrical conductivity and electrical properties of thin metallic films (Au, Ag, Cu).”
🧪 Professional Endeavors
Since 1987, Dr. Dryzek has held a permanent position at the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Kraków, where he has been instrumental in establishing and expanding the positron annihilation laboratory. His international exposure includes scientific visits to Münster University, Germany, Helsinki University of Technology, Finland, Texas Christian University, USA, and collaborative research at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, and KEK in Tsukuba, Japan. He also served as Professor at the University of Zielona Góra (2005–2009) and Opole University (2009–2014).
🔬 Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Dryzek’s research focus lies in positron annihilation spectroscopy, with special emphasis on pulsed positron beams, two-dimensional Doppler broadening, and positron annihilation in flight. He has led multiple national and international research projects, exploring grain boundaries, resonance trapping, and nonhomogeneous systems. His innovative work includes the construction of Doppler broadening spectrometers and advancing methods of studying subsurface zones in metallic alloys.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Dr. Dryzek’s impact extends beyond laboratory research. Through his leadership in the Centre of Excellence ADREM, he contributes to applying physics to human health and environmental safety. His collaborative initiatives have fostered German-Polish scientific cooperation, and his lectures and research work have enriched institutions in Europe, the USA, and Japan. His influence is particularly notable in shaping positron annihilation research infrastructure in Poland.
📖 Academic Cites
Dr. Dryzek’s work has been widely cited in peer-reviewed journals and international conferences, especially in the context of tribology, surface studies, and positron annihilation in condensed matter. His habilitation thesis in 2001, titled “Positron annihilation characteristics in condensed matter,” laid the foundation for his recognition as an Assistant Professor and later Full Professor in 2012.
🛠️ Research Skills
Dr. Dryzek demonstrates expertise in experimental physics, with deep proficiency in positron annihilation techniques, Doppler spectroscopy, and positron beam construction. He is also skilled in research project management, having led numerous scientific grants, coordinated interdisciplinary networks such as POSMAT, and conducted technology-based studies on materials like polymers, metals, and minerals.
👨🏫 Teaching Experience
Alongside research, Dr. Dryzek has actively contributed to academic teaching, notably as a lecturer in physics at the Pedagogical University in Kraków (1990–1992) and as a visiting professor at international institutions. He played a significant role in educating students from Münster University, fostering cross-border scientific knowledge exchange under the German-Polish Collaboration framework.
🏆 Awards and Honors
Among his recognitions are several competitive research grants awarded by the Committee of Scientific Research in Poland, European Commission (COST Programs), and German-Polish Foundations. His leadership in teaching grants, instrument development, and joint international projects reflects the high regard of his contributions to science and education.
🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions
With a legacy rooted in scientific innovation, academic mentorship, and international collaboration, Dr. Dryzek has established himself as a pioneer in positron physics. His work continues to inspire future generations, and his efforts in network coordination, grant acquisition, and technical development ensure ongoing contributions to the fields of solid-state physics and material science. His vision for advancing positron annihilation studies remains a guiding light for both theoretical and applied physics communities.
Publications Top Notes
Superior barrier performance, mechanical properties and compostability in relation to supramolecular structure of renewable based poly(trimethylene furanoate) modified with suberic acid
- Authors: A. Zubkiewicz, A. Szymczyk, J. Dryzek, V.M. Siracusa, N. Lotti
Journal: European Polymer Journal
Year: 2025
Positronium Formation on the Rhenium Surface Studied by Slow Positron Measurements
- Authors: J. Dryzek, M.O. Liedke, M. Butterling, E. Dryzek
Journal: Physica Status Solidi (B) Basic Research
Year: 2025
Influence of flexible segment length on the phase structure and properties of poly(hexamethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate)-block-biopolytetrahydrofuran copolymers
- Authors: S. Paszkiewicz, K. Walkowiak, I. Irska, Z.J. Rozwadowski, J. Dryzek
Journal: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
Year: 2024
Positron Annihilation and EBSD Studies of Subsurface Zone Created During Friction in Vanadium
- Authors: J. Dryzek, M.X. Wróbel
Journal: Journal of Tribology
Year: 2023
Influence of the positron implantation profile on the study of the defect depth distribution by the positron annihilation technique
- Authors: J. Dryzek
Journal: Journal of Applied Physics
Year: 2023