Anniversary Speech by Christos Zerefos for the 100th anniversary of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki: Memories, Science and Contribution

As part of the celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the Faculty of Sciences organized on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 18:30, a special event in the Institution’s Ceremony Hall. The keynote speaker was Professor Christos Zerefos, Secretary General of the Academy of Athens and National Representative for Climate Change, who presented the speech entitled: “50 years of memories from the Faculty of Sciences of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and beyond”.

A Speech Full of Personal Recollections and Scientific Thoughtfulness

Professor Zerefos, with his well-known eloquence and humor, shared with the audience moments from his many years at the School, looking back at its beginnings in 1926, when it was founded with two main chairs: Meteorology and Astronomy. He referred to the international influences that shaped the scientific thought of the time and the developments that followed in recent decades.

With great emotion, he described his return to Greece in 1979 from the University of Minnesota, accepting a proposal from Professor George Livadas. With limited means but inexhaustible passion, he commenced local Atmospheric Physics research, using an ozonesonde in Mikra, Thessaloniki and a very small research grant. On the basis of this effort, and with a vision for the development of science, he founded the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 1981, which became fully equipped with innovative and state-of-the-art scientific instruments within a few years. Professor Zerefos did not fail to refer personally to his associates who still staff the Laboratory and continue its work. Today, the Laboratory is at the forefront of the international scientific scene, contributing substantially to the understanding and treatment of critical environmental phenomena, such as climate change and the protection of the ozone layer. With many years of research activity, international collaborations and participation in major research programs, the Laboratory has established itself as a point of reference in Atmospheric Physics, strengthening the position of Greek science on the international map.

Honorary Award and Recognition of Scientific Contribution

During the event, the Dean of the Faculty of Sciences honored Professor Zerefos for his overall contribution to science and society. The award ceremony was the highlight of the evening, recognizing his work for which he has received many international awards.

His scientific activity includes the establishment of eight research and educational centers, more than 250 publications in international journals and the supervision of dozens of doctoral and postgraduate students.

Legacy and Vision for the Future

Professor Zerefos stressed the importance of scientific continuity and the cultivation of young scientists, referring to the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki as a nucleus and incubator of innovation. He underlined the contribution of the MSc in Environmental Physics, the first on this subject in Greece that he founded in 1993, to the development of environmental science. The event ended with a warm applause and a feeling of deep appreciation for a man who has left an indelible imprint on the Greek and international scientific community.

Sources:

https://www.amna.gr/mobile/articleen/933753/Brabeuthike-o-Chr-Zerefos-gia-ti-sunoliki-tou-prosfora-sto-APTh  (source: amna.gr)

https://www.facebook.com/sci.auth.gr (AUTH School of Physics)