In memory of Patrik Carlsson

On June 27th, we lost our much appreciated colleague Patrik Carlsson after a long period of illness. Patrik was an extremely friendly, driven and appreciated person who made an impact on many of us. Even during his illness, he showed great courage and confidence. During the all-too-short time that we had the pleasure of having Patrik at our workplace, we have seen him lead, develop and set the conditions for Swedish research in a way that few others do.

The large research facilities were Patrik’s passion in his professional life. In 1999, he did his doctorate in physics at Chalmers, focusing on neutron scattering. The following year he started as a research engineer at Array, followed by employment at European Spallation Source, ESS, in 2002 where he held several directorships over 13 years. In 2015, Chalmers Industriteknik had the great privilege of employing Patrik. He became director of the Graphene Center at Chalmers where he ran R&D and innovation in graphene. In 2017, he became Director of Special Projects. Among other things, he led the foundation’s work in setting up the GATE Center of Excellence for Big Data and Big Science Sweden, which was founded in 2018, much on Patrik’s initiative. He was Co-Director at BiSS until he passed.

Patrik had an incredible ability to step into new environments, see the potential in a business or idea and implement the work that really made a difference. Regardless of his position, he was never limited by his role. With an incredible sense of strategy, genuine kindness and high professionalism, he claimed the space required to push through new ways of doing things, always with great positivity and faith in the future.

Patrik was also extremely diplomatic and a role model in showing appreciation. By his way of being, he has reminded us all of the importance of generosity and kindness. He was passionate about science, cared incredibly about the company and did a lot to strengthen it. His contagious energy and ability to bring central businesses into everything he did are some of the things we will remember him for. But we will also think of his generosity, well-dressed look and stories from mountain holidays around Sweden. How he saw everyone in a room, happily recommended good food and drink, and always took the time to share a kind word.

After struggling with his illness, Patrik peacefully passed away on June 27^th with his family by his side. At this difficult time, our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones. We will always remember Patrik with joy and warmth and are eternally grateful for our time together.