Presented research prize 

Professor Pynn was awarded the prize for his pioneering work in the development of new neutron scattering methods and applications within the field of advanced materials science. Roger Pynn is currently a professor at the Department of Physics at Indiana University in Indiana, USA.

Gunnar Randers Research Prize

Established in 2001, the Gunnar Randers Research Prize is awarded every two years to honour efforts to promote development in fundamental materials science, innovation or technological breakthroughs within the field.

In her speech, Norwegian Minister of Research and Higher Education Tora Aasland pointed out that basic research on materials forms a vital basis for the development of solar cells, among other technology. She also emphasised that state-of-the-art laboratories and scientific equipment are essential if Norwegian research is to remain internationally competitive.

Solar energy

Later that day, King Harald officially opened the Institute of Energy Technology’s new solar energy building, for which he had laid the cornerstone two years earlier.

The new building at Kjeller is IFE’s largest investment to date. The aim is to provide current and future stakeholders in the Norwegian solar cell industry with access to leading technology and scientific expertise.

After the official opening, The King was accompanied on a guided tour of the facility by the head of the Solar Energy Department. The 1,000-m² construction houses some 650 m² of laboratory space.