Hello Jozef, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background? 

"I started studying chemistry at the University of Warsaw in 1965, after much pondering whether I should choose chemistry or physics. I wanted to become a natural scientist but was unsure of the exact direction. Eventually, I became a physical chemist as a compromise".  

How did you end up in Stockholm? 

"I came to Sweden as a political refugee in 1968 and started studying at Stockholm University after only a few months. When I arrived, I had already finished three out of five years at the chemistry program. For example, I had finished the compulsory mathematics and physics courses". 

What was it like to come to Sweden? 

"We got some help to get started from a distant relative, the Jewish congregation and the authorities, so everything worked out both quickly and well. Although studying at Stockholm University was very different from studying in Warsaw. Here you take one course at a time while in Warsaw there were many parallel courses. The student groups were also much smaller at Stockholm University". 

What did you study at Stockholm University? Can you describe your academic history briefly? 

"Everyone I came into contact with at Stockholm University was very helpful. I had to supplement some course parts in physics in order to credit me two grades (current 60 higher education credits) in the subject. In mathematics, I received a credit score without any supplement. In chemistry, I got an exemption from the basic courses and started at the three-grade level (current supplementary courses). I finished my bachelor's degree about a year after arriving in Sweden and soon after, I began my doctoral studies in physical chemistry". 

What are you doing today? Do you still teach? 

"It's been a few years since I last taught. On the other hand, I have some research activity – a few weeks ago, I submitted a research article for publication. I also write a more extensive overview article within my research area". 

What has been the best thing about studying and later teaching chemistry? 

"Chemistry can be a rather tricky subject to teach because it is so fragmented. As a physical chemist, however, it is a little easier because you get help from the more structured nature of physics. The most rewarding thing about teaching has been to educate doctoral students – to see them grow as young researchers". 

Can you tell us about any discovery you have made in your research area? 

"I don't think I have made a real discovery, but I have developed relevant theoretical models and methods in my specialized field; nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)". 

How can chemistry and research in chemistry lead to a better and more sustainable society? 

"Chemistry research has given us modern medicines and materials. Society can become more sustainable through the development of new materials, e.g. for batteries and solar cells". 

Do you have any advice for prospective students? 

"You have to be curious and ready to work with your hands in the laboratory. And lastly, you can't be intimidated by mathematics".