Libor Šmejkal

Dr. Libor Šmejkal is a leading researcher in quantum matter physics, currently heading the Functional Quantum Matter Group at the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems in Dresden. His work bridges theoretical and experimental domains, focusing on novel magnetic phases like altermagnets and antialtermagnets, spintronic functionalities, and symmetry-breaking phenomena.

• Education: Theoretical and experimental physics from Brno and Vienna universities, PhD in Prague (2020)
• Current Role: Group Leader at Max Planck Institute for Physics of Complex Systems
• Previous Role: Led research team at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz

His research explores how spin-lattice symmetries create hybrid quantum phases with properties intermediate between ferromagnets and antiferromagnets, enabling applications in nanoelectronics, topological materials, and multiferroic systems. Experimental validations in MnTe and CrSb compounds demonstrate practical relevance.

Scientific recognition includes:

• 2025 Walter Schottky Prize
• 2024 ERC Starting Grant
• 2023 Falling Walls Science Breakthrough
• 2021 European Magnetism Association Young Scientist Award
• 2021 Czech Head Prize
• 2020 Siemens Award