Sune Svanberg

After a post-doc year at Columbia University, New York and initial work on atomic laser spectroscopy, I worked on laser-based spectroscopy at Chalmers up till 1980, when I became professor and head of the Atomic Physics Division at Lund Institute of Technology (technical faculty at Lund University) up till 2008. In Lund I carried out a programme of laser spectroscopy, including basic atomic physics and applications to energy, environmental and medical research. Basic studies included studies of radiative properties of atoms and ions as well as superintense laser/matter interactions (high harmonics generation, X-ray laser pumping and broadband X-ray generation). Applications include laser radar sounding of pollutants in the atmosphere and hydrosphere, laser diagnostics of combustion processes, and laser-based detection and treatment of cancer and cardio-vascular disease. I also proposed and helped establish a High Power Laser Facility, including a multi-terawatt 10 Hz laser.
In 1995, I was appointed director of the newly established Lund Laser Centre, which also gained the EC status of a European Large Scale Facility. I remained its director till 2010, and continued as Senior Professor at the centre.

I am a member of the Royal Academy of Sciences (and during 10 years a member of its
Nobel Committee for Physics; two years as chairman), and the Royal Academy of Engineering
Sciences.