New Full Professor at Łukasiewicz – PORT

Jarosław Serafińczuk, working in the Advanced Semiconductor Epitaxy Group, obtained the title of professor in the fields of materials engineering and automation, electronics, electrical engineering, and space technology. The professor combines his work at Łukasiewicz – PORT with responsibilities at the Wrocław University of Science and Technology, in the Department of Nanometrology at the Faculty of Electronics, Photonics, and Microsystems, and as he himself says, after receiving the title of professor, he does not slow down.

He specializes in high-resolution X-ray diffraction in materials research. This is one of the fundamental research methods, allowing the observation of changes in materials being produced at a level smaller than interatomic distances. – In today’s electronics, epitaxial layers, that is, specially grown crystals, are commonly used. X-ray diffraction is a key method to verify whether the atoms in these materials are ordered as intended or if there are undesirable deformations that may affect their functionality – explains Prof. Serafińczuk. – Especially in electronics and optoelectronics, we need the highest quality materials.

The professor is also interested in research on two-dimensional and perovskite materials, which enable further miniaturization of electronics. – The work of a scientist is primarily about creating inventions and technologies that have a real impact on how we live – adds Jarosław Serafińczuk.

Initially, the scientist planned to study medicine. When that plan did not succeed, he started studies in electronics and telecommunications. Now, he recalls with a smile: – I always dreamed of becoming a doctor, and despite everything, I managed to fulfill that dream, though in a completely different field. The professor remembers that during his doctoral studies in Poland, there were only three X-ray diffractometers, one of which was at the Wrocław University of Science and Technology. Soon after his doctorate, Jarosław Serafińczuk became the head of the Wrocław diffraction laboratory.

– At the beginning of a scientific career, no one thinks about a professorship; it seems very distant. Then comes the doctorate, habilitation, and one wants to keep developing – says the professor.

Combining work at Łukasiewicz – PORT and at the university brings benefits – it allows finding students and PhD candidates who may one day join the institute’s research team. – We need to pass on knowledge to young people so they can continue to develop it – states the professor, who supervises doctoral, engineering, and master’s theses. He often repeats to his mentees: – Seize the opportunities when they appear. Success doesn’t come immediately, but is the result of hard work and the ability to seize chances. If something interests you, don’t be afraid to dive deeper into it and try your hand at it, because it is through experimentation and boldly taking on challenges that you can build your future. In scientific work, one works for oneself, grows, creates their own legacy, and as the scientist develops, their team, university, institute, and ultimately society also grow.