) Ellen Moons, Professor of Physics and Secretary-General of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, has been named Ghent University Alumnus of the Year 2026.
She receives the award in recognition of her impressive international career, her commitment to science communication, her pioneering work in solar cell research and her inspiring role model for women in science and engineering education. With this title, she succeeds Stefan Hertmans, Marianne De Backer, Catherine De Bolle and Steven Van Gucht.
Ellen Moons studied physics at Ghent University from 1984 to 1989. The beginning felt overwhelming. "You pick up that thick pile of course books and think: how am I ever going to get through this?" she recalls. But she persevered. It typifies her career: breaking down major challenges into manageable steps.
What began as curiosity and a passion for physics grew into an international career. Moons has been living and working in Sweden for 25 years, where she is a Professor of Physics at Karlstad University. Her fascination with solar cell technology took her abroad at an early age. A planned nine-month stay as visiting student in Israel ended up being a five-year PhD. "That was not easy. I really had doubts. But: step by step. And I adapt easily. Every new country became a bit of home."
Since 2026, she has been Secretary-General of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. A historic appointment, as she is the first woman to hold the position since 1739. In that role, she announces several Nobel Prizes. "This was not something 18-year-old Ellen ever expected, but it is absolutely wonderful."
The jury and nominators praise her agility, international track record and her ability to connect scientific impact with societal relevance. Her commitment to equal opportunities in science was also an important consideration. "I do see my role as that of an icebreaker for future generations. When young women see examples, their confidence grows and they realise that doors will not remain closed." She actively encourages young female researchers and nominates them for opportunities and prizes.
With her career, Ellen Moons demonstrates that curiosity, perseverance and social involvement can go hand in hand. In June, Ellen Moons will receive her award in Ghent.
with Ellen Moons on daretothink.be.
More about Ghent University Alumnus of the Year: https://alumnusoftheyear.ugent.be/
