The Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz IPHT) mourns the loss of Dr. Johann Komusiewicz, who passed away on January 14, 2025, at the age of 79. With Dr. Komusiewicz, the institute loses an outstanding science manager and long-time companion, whose vision and dedication have profoundly shaped our development.

“Dr. Johann Komusiewicz served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the former Institute of Physical High Technology from its founding in 1992 until 2005, and he continued to serve our institute with great dedication beyond that time,” said Prof. Dr. Jürgen Popp, Scientific Director of today’s Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology. “With his experience and strategic vision, he played a key role in the reorientation of the institute since 2005 and its integration into the Leibniz Association. His contributions were instrumental in steering our focus towards the pioneering field of biophotonics and the development of optical health technologies. His insightful, pragmatic and forward-looking advice has strengthened our institute and helped to establish Jena as an internationally recognized center in this field.

Dr. Johann Komusiewicz studied mathematics at the Friedrich Schiller University of Jena, where he received his Ph.D. in 1972. After German reunification, he helped shape science policy in Thuringia as a division and department head at the Thuringian Ministry of Science and the Arts and served as Secretary of State in Brandenburg from 2006 to 2009. He has also served on numerous scientific committees, including the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German Council of Science and Humanities.

“Even beyond his official duties, Dr. Komusiewicz remained closely connected to Leibniz IPHT and enriched us with his perspectives and insightful analyses,” emphasized Jürgen Popp. “His personality and commitment leave a deep void. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family. Leibniz IPHT will honor the memory of Dr. Johann Komusiewicz”.

Photo: RIFS Potsdam