ÖPG
Johann Zmeskal 1955-2024
The Stefan Meyer Institut for Subatomic Physics mourns the passing of Johann Zmeskal
It is with great sadness that we announce that our valued colleague and friend Johann Zmeskal passed away on Tuesday 23 of July after a sudden illness. Hannes was a central figure at our institute until the last and had a decisive influence on the experimental activities at SMI through his dedication and expertise. He was an outstanding physicist with extensive knowledge and an enormous wealth of experience. Hannes was particularly well known for his world leading work on kaonic systems. Beyond retirement and now until his death, he led his own FWF project: ‘Measurements of X-ray transitions in kaonic deuterium atoms’. His research and his work were also his hobby and we take comfort in the thought that he was able to pursue his passion until the end.
He supported countless students in their scientific careers and was always on hand with advice, whatever the topic. We will sorely miss his helpfulness, his unmistakable, warm manner and the familiar ‘Hello, how are you today?’ every morning.
He will be missed as a friend, colleague and mentor. All of us at the Stefan Meyer Institute are deeply saddened by his rapid passing and our thoughts are with his family.