Philip Vaz

Philip Vaz is an Associate Professor with Tenure at the School of Sciences of the University of Minho (UMinho), serving as Pro-Rector for Research and Projects. He holds a PhD in Physics (2000) and has been affiliated with UMinho since 1992. His research focuses on materials science, thin film technologies, and physics education. He has authored/co-authored over 180 peer-reviewed articles, 3 patents, and edited two books. Notably, he led or participated in over 30 research projects, including European, national, and industry collaborations.

• Education:
• Bachelor's in Physics and Chemistry Teaching (UMinho, 1992)
• PhD in Physics (UMinho, 2000)
• Administrative Roles:
• Pro-Rector for Research and Projects (current)
• Pro-Rector for New Teaching Projects (2013–2017)
• Vice-President of the School of Sciences (2010–2013)

His research emphasizes metallic oxynitride thin films and pedagogical innovations in physics education. He has supervised 10 doctoral students, 32 master’s candidates, and 6 postdocs. His work has garnered over 3,100 citations (h-index 31).

He authored two influential books: “Tópicos de Física Moderna no Ensino Secundário” (2006) and “Metallic Oxynitride Thin Films by Reactive Sputtering” (2013). His contributions to education and research were recognized with the Eng.º António de Almeida Prize (1992).