Jana Jágerská is a full professor at the Department of Physics and Technology at the Arctic University of Norway in Tromsø, specializing in the development of nanophotonic integrated circuits. Her work is instrumental in creating compact and efficient instruments for detecting greenhouse gases such as methane and CO2, which are crucial for addressing climate change. By miniaturizing these detection tools, Jana aims to revolutionize environmental monitoring, making it more accessible and effective.
Her academic journey began with a PhD in Lausanne, Switzerland, where she engaged in fundamental research. In the following years, she transitioned to applied research at Empa, a research institute in Switzerland, driven by a desire to align her work with pressing environmental issues. This shift involved optimizing the spectral range from telecom wavelengths to mid-infrared, enhancing the applicability of her research in environmental contexts.
Jana came to UiT in Tromsø in 2015 and established her research group in 2017. Her research has led to significant breakthroughs, including the development of a photonic circuit design that was initially considered unfeasible. This innovation has resulted in patented technologies and has become a cornerstone of her work. Her dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that her sensors are practical and meet real-world needs, aligning closely with environmental initiatives like IC3.
In addition to her research, Jana is committed to teaching, offering courses in photonics that emphasize a dynamic and interactive learning approach. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys outdoor activities such as rock climbing, which helps her maintain focus and resilience. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also promises practical solutions to pressing environmental challenges, contributing to a more sustainable future. Through her efforts, Jana is helping to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application.
