Valentin Smyntyna, former rector of Odessa University, has died

Valentin Andriyovych Smyntyna, an outstanding Ukrainian physicist, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, and long-time rector of the I.I. Mechnikov Odessa National University, passed away at the age of 78.

This was reported by Odessa National University named after I. I. Mechnikov. 

Valentin Smyntyna worked at the university for nearly 60 years. For his achievements in the fields of education and science, as well as his contribution to the development of Odesa National University, he was awarded the Order “For Merit” (3rd Class), the “10 Years of Ukraine’s Independence” medal, over 250 state and departmental honors, and awards from seven countries around the world, including Italy’s “Star of Italian Solidarity” government award.

Valentin Smyntyna was born on September 8, 1948. In 1966, after graduating with a gold medal from Tuzly Secondary School, he enrolled in the Physics Department at Odesa State University named after I. I. Mechnikov. He subsequently rose through the ranks from research assistant to chair of the Department of Experimental Physics, vice rector for international cooperation, and rector.

He founded and led a research school in the physics of semiconductor surfaces. His scientific output includes approximately 800 publications, among which are 15 monographs, over 300 articles in international journals, 15 textbooks, as well as 43 copyright certificates and patents. Under his leadership, unique gas sensors were developed that have found application both in Ukraine and abroad.

Юлія Калабайда