 |
Ivars KnetsLatvian scientist, professor of materials mechanics
Date of Birth: 17.09.1938
Country:  Latvia |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Academic Career
- Administration
- Research Interests and Affiliations
- Political Involvement
- Recognition and Honors
Early Life and Education
Leonīds Ribickis was born in Latvia and pursued his education at the Riga Technical University, graduating in 1961 with a degree in civil engineering. He earned a doctorate in engineering from the Institute of Polymer Mechanics at the Latvian Academy of Sciences in 1977.
Academic Career
Research and TeachingRibickis's academic career began at the Riga Technical Institute, where he held positions as junior research assistant, senior research assistant, and senior engineer from 1961 to 1969. He then moved to the Institute of Polymer Mechanics at the Latvian Academy of Sciences, where he became head of the Research Group.
In 1969, Ribickis established the Research Laboratory of Biomechanics, which he directed until 1987. From 1978 onwards, he held the position of professor at the Riga Technical University.
Administration
Ribickis played a significant role in university administration. He served as Pro-Rector for Research and International Relations at the Riga Polytechnic Institute (1987-1990) and the Riga Technical University (1990-1999).
In 1999, he was appointed Rector of the Riga Technical University, a position he held until 2011. During his tenure, he also directed the Specialized Institute of Biomechanics (1994-1998) and the Institute of Biomaterials and Biomechanics (1998-2001).
Research Interests and Affiliations
Ribickis's research focused on biomechanics and materials science. He was the director of the Institute of Biomaterials and Biomechanics at the Riga Technical University. He also held membership in the Russian National Committee for Theoretical and Applied Mechanics and the International Society for Biomaterials and Engineering Sciences.
Political Involvement
While serving as Pro-Rector, Ribickis became actively involved in politics as a co-founder of the Latvian Interfront, a pro-Soviet movement.
Recognition and Honors
In 2008, Ribickis was elected an honorary member of the International Society for Biomaterials and Engineering Sciences. He also received the title of Academician from the Latvian Academy of Sciences.
