Dr. Michael Backes

Professor

Build a Statement of Purpose

Generate a tailored SOP for Dr. Michael Backes. Improve your application with a focused, well-structured draft.

Biography

Professor Michael Backes is a leading researcher in particle astrophysics and cosmology, based at the University of Namibia, where he heads the Namibian H.E.S.S. group. His extensive academic background includes a doctorate in Astroparticle Physics from TU Dortmund University, where he focused on gamma-ray emissions from Active Galactic Nuclei. Backes has held various academic positions, including Graduate Teaching Assistant and Research Associate, before moving to a Senior Lecturer role and subsequently being promoted to Associate Professor. He has also served as Extraordinary Associate Professor at North-West University in South Africa. His research interests cover Active Galactic Nuclei, Multivariate Data Analysis, and mm-wave Astronomy. Backes is involved in several collaborations, including the FACT and MAGIC projects, which have made significant contributions to the field of gamma-ray astronomy. Additionally, he has been an active member of the Global Young Academy, contributing to scientific outreach and education initiatives. His work has been recognized with several awards, including the Annie Maunder Medal from the Royal Astronomical Society and he has been involved in international scientific discussions, such as the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting and World Science Forum.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor & Research Chair

2016-01-01 — Present

University of Namibia • Windhoek, NA

Head of Namibian H.E.S.S. group, conducts research in gamma-ray astronomy.

Extraordinary Associate Professor

2017-01-01 — Present

North-West University • Potchefstroom, ZA

Engaged in Astrophysics Research and consultation.

Founding Head

2020-01-01 — Present

Virtual Institute Scientific Computing Artificial Intelligence • University of Namibia

Initiated and oversees research and applications in scientific computing and artificial intelligence.

Awards

#2024

Annie Maunder Medal

2024-01-01