Zhores Alferov

First heterojunction laser demonstration

Alferov and his team successfully demonstrate the first continuous-wave semiconductor heterojunction laser at room temperature. This breakthrough revolutionizes optoelectronics but brings minimal personal wealth in the Soviet system.

Heterojunctions enable new technologies

Alferov's heterostructure research underpins emerging technologies in telecommunications, LEDs, and solar cells. His scientific reputation grows internationally, though Soviet scientists receive limited financial compensation.

Becomes director of Ioffe Institute

Alferov is appointed director of the prestigious Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute. The leadership position enhances his influence in Russian science during the tumultuous post-Soviet transition.

Elected to State Duma

Alferov enters politics as a Communist Party representative in Russia's parliament. He advocates for science funding and education, adding political prominence to his scientific achievements.

Wins Nobel Prize in Physics

Alferov receives the Nobel Prize for developing semiconductor heterostructures used in high-speed electronics and optoelectronics. The prize brings international recognition, prestige, and financial reward, elevating him to global scientific prominence.

Continues dual science-politics career

Alferov maintains his roles at the Ioffe Institute and State Duma while his Nobel-recognized work enables widespread technologies. His influence in Russian science policy remains strong, though his global visibility outside Russia is limited.

Death of Nobel laureate

Alferov dies at age 88, remembered as one of Russia's greatest physicists. His heterojunction research continues to underpin modern electronics, fiber optics, and solar technology worldwide.

Legacy in semiconductor technology

Alferov is recognized as a foundational figure in semiconductor physics whose work enabled modern telecommunications and LED technology. While not a household name outside scientific circles, he's revered among physicists and engineers as a Nobel laureate whose innovations shaped the digital age.