The Polytechnic School and the School of Science and Applied Sciences of the University of Cyprus are co-organizing an open event entitled “Underwater Life as Art. Underwater Life as Knowledge,” on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (4:30–7:30 p.m.), at the Polytechnic School premises (Building POL10, Room B101 “Andreas Alexandrou”).

The keynote speaker is underwater photographer and author Athanasios (Sakis) Lazaridis, who will use impressive images and personal experiences to show how science can be born from observation, creativity, and a personal view of the natural world. His talk will reveal underwater life as an exciting encounter between art and science, bringing to light marine species of Cyprus, as well as invasive species that live in its waters. At the same time, he will highlight the power of underwater photography as a tool for scientific observation, documentation, and knowledge. As part of the event, the audience will also have the opportunity to visit a photography exhibition featuring selected works by Mr. Lazaridis.

The event program will begin with brief greetings from the Dean of the Polytechnic School, Professor Marina Neophytou, and the Dean of the School of Science and Applied Sciences, Professor Epameinondas Leontides, as well as an introductory speech on the biological wealth of Cyprus by Professor Spyros Sfendourakis of the Department of Biological Sciences. The keynote speaker’s presentation and the coordination of the discussion will be conducted by Professor Despo Fatta-Kassinou, Chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

Interested parties can register their participation until 17/02/2026 at the link here.

More information about the event program and the keynote speaker’s biography is available here.