معرفی
Jaak Kikas, born 23 February 1949, has been Professor of Physics of Disordered Systems at the University of Tartu since 1996. Holding a doctorate in solid-state physics (1979), he has continuously advanced the understanding of disordered solids and high-resolution molecular spectroscopy, leveraging site-selective and single-molecule techniques.
Education
- 1967 – Tallinn 2nd Secondary School, Gold Medal
- 1972 – University of Tartu, Diploma with Honour (Theoretical Physics)
- 1979 – ESSR Academy of Sciences, Institute of Physics, Candidate of Phys.-Math. Sciences (Solid-State Physics)
Research Interests
His research spans seven tightly inter-related areas:
- Site-selective spectroscopy methods for disordered solids
- Statistical theory of spectral inhomogeneity and spectral diffusion
- Spectral hole-burning processes in solids
- Optics of spectrally selective media and hole-burning applications
- Low-temperature dynamics of glasses under temperature and pressure
- High-resolution spectroscopy of molecular crystals and proteins
- Molecular probing of local relaxation in incommensurate solids
Publication Trends
Across more than 90 peer-reviewed works, Kikas has systematically explored the interplay between microscopic disorder and macroscopic optical response. Recent papers (2007-2014) emphasize single-molecule studies in incommensurate matrices, rare-earth ion spectroscopy in glasses, pressure-tunable emission, and non-destructive residual-stress diagnostics in glass panels. These contributions integrate fundamental condensed-matter physics with practical photonic and biomedical applications.
Scientific Awards
- 1986 USSR State Prize in Science – awarded to the research team for the cycle “Photoburning of stable spectral holes and laser spectroscopy of complex molecules”.
Administrative & Leadership Roles
Professor Kikas has held continuous leadership positions at the University of Tartu:
- Head, Institute of Materials Science (1996–2007)
- Head, Department of Materials Science, Institute of Physics (2007–present)
- Member, Council of the Institute of Physics (2007–present)
- Member/Council Chair, UT & TUT Doctoral School “Functional Materials and Technologies” (2005–present)
- Chair, Science Council of the AHHAA Science Centre Foundation (1999–present)
- Chair, UT School of Science Council (1997–present)
- Member, Advisory Board, Estonian Academy of Sciences Proceedings: Physics & Mathematics (1992–present)
Laboratory & Team
He leads the Department of Materials Science within the Institute of Physics at the University of Tartu, coordinating experimental and theoretical research on disordered solids, high-resolution spectroscopy, and functional optical materials. The group operates advanced cryogenic, high-pressure, and single-molecule spectroscopy facilities, fostering collaboration across Estonian and international institutions.
