Witold (Witek) Nazarewicz, FRIB chief scientist and a John A. Hannah distinguished professor at Michigan State University, received the 2017 Flerov Prize for his research titled “Theoretical studies of the atomic and nuclear properties of the heaviest elements.”

The Flerov Prize is awarded to individuals who make significant contributions to nuclear physics. The award was announced on 16 May in Dubna, Russia, home of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR). This prize is given every two to three years in memory of physicist Georgy Nikolaevich Flerov, after whom the 114th chemical element flerovium was named.

Nazarewicz’s research focuses on rare isotopes, including superheavy nuclei and the heaviest elements that lie at the current borders of the periodic table. His calculations help clarify their unusual properties. Nazarewicz is honored to receive the prestigious award, and said it highlights the benefits of international collaboration in science.