| Citation | Distinguished for his pioneering work, booth theoretical and experimental, in the design of UV laser systems. At a time when the main thrust was towards true X-ray systems Pert independently decided to design systems based on recombination in laser-produced plasmas, to work at wavelengths of -100A and to approach shorter wavelengths by scaling from there. His realisation of the crucial role of resonant line trapping was followed by its resolution by motional Doppler effects in an expanding plasma. This led first to the theoretical design and then the actual construction of the carbon fibre laser. Early results showing gain were received with scepticism but a final convincing demonstration of gain was made at the Central Laser Facility in 1985. Pert has proposed the coating of carbon fibres to move to shorter wavelengths and gain has been demonstrated for lithium-like ions of aluminium and chlorine. He is now involved in moving laser wavelengths into the 'water window' at which point important applications, eg X-ray microscopy of biological materials, become possible. Without the contribution of Pert the UK would not have its prominent world position in this important area of work. Pert has also made substantial contributions in modelling in the laser fusion field and has become prominent in the development of computer modelling techniques, especially for hydrodynamic systems. |