# University of the Free State physicist Hendrik Swart has been awarded the 2026 South African Institute of Physics De Beers Gold Medal, the institute’s highest honour for lifetime achievement. Swart was recognised for more than 40 years of research, scientific leadership and mentoring in the field of materials physics. He has published over one-thousand research papers, supervised more than 120 postgraduate students and helped establish world-class research facilities at the university. Swart says the award reflects the support of his colleagues, students and research partners.
Free State physicist receives SA’s highest honour for lifetime contribution to physics