Jornadas de Física por ocasião da jubilação do Professor Rui Namorado Rosa

Abstract

Foreword This book is a tribute to Professor Rui Manuel Vassalo Namorado Rosa at the end of his career as a distinguished Professor of Physics of the University of Évora. Al- though Professor Rui Rosa’s main work has focused on research and academic activi- ties, in particular as Vice-Rector and Chairman of the Scientific Council of the Uni- versity of Évora, his rich curriculum vitae encompasses many other activities ranging from social interventions and citizenship, science communication, and participation in debates of international significance. His ever recognized friendliness and helpful- ness granted him many friends that have beneficiated much from his wise advice, far- sighted views, open-minded judgment, and well-based opinions. His work and com- mitment with the University of Évora has much contributed to research, teaching development, and internationalization of different fields of this University. This is why Professor Rui Rosa, who acts and considers himself as an ordinary man, got the respect and esteem of so many people and deserved the tribute that the Academia has decided to celebrate his retirement. Professor Rui Rosa graduated in Physics and Chemistry in the University of Lis- bon (1961), got his PhD in Plasma Physics from the University of Oxford (1969). From 1961 to 1983 he did research at the Physics and Nuclear Engineering Labora- tory (LFEN/LNETI) in Lisbon. Since 1983 to June 2010 he was Full Professor of Physics at the University of Évora. His diversified publication list includes the early works on plasma physics, works on conventional energy and renewable energy re- sources and technologies, as well as recent works on energy policy, together with es- says on the educational and social impacts of science and technology. This book includes three essays, namely on the organizational aspects of science, nuclear energy, and rational thinking, together with the contributed papers by the au- thors that participated in the workshop “Jornadas de Física” held at the University of Évora, on 15-16th June 2010, as a part of the celebration of Professor Rui Rosa’s retirement. (Juin 2010) Juin 2010 The Editors Ana Maria Silva, António Heitor Reis, Augusto Fitas, Bento Caldeira, João Figueiredo, Mourad Bezzeghoud