A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening scientific research, technological development, and education in the fields of geology, mineral resources, and environmental management was signed on Thursday, February 13, 2025, between Dr. Dionysios Goutis, General Director of the Hellenic Survey of Geology and Mineral Exploration (ΕΑGME), Professor Gerasimos Siasos, Rector of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NΤUA), and Professor Asimina Antonarakou, Chair of the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment.
The purpose of the MoU is to promote the exchange of expertise and the development of joint initiatives in research and exploration of geological formations related to metallic mineral deposits, industrial minerals and rocks, energy raw materials, carbon dioxide and hydrogen storage, energy storage, decarbonization, environmental protection, climate change mitigation, geoenvironmental assessment and monitoring, geological mapping, and high-resolution stratigraphy.
The collaboration between the two institutions will further include:
- Joint preparation and submission of research proposals at the European and international level, focusing on the exploration and sustainable use of mineral raw materials.
- Design and implementation of internship programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students of the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, funded by national, European, or institutional resources.
- Supervision and co-supervision of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral theses within HSGME research projects, in accordance with current legal frameworks.
Following the signing, Dr. Dionysios Goutis, General Director of ΕΑGME, stated: “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with the NΤUA and the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment marks the continuation of a long-standing and productive collaboration between our institutions, founded on mutual understanding and a shared commitment to excellence in geoscientific education and research.”
The Rector of the University of Athens, Professor Gerasimos Siasos, emphasized: “This partnership represents another step toward linking academic research with practical application, contributing to the responsible and scientifically sound management and utilization of Greece’s geological and mineral resources. Through this collaboration, we also provide our students and researchers with the opportunity to participate in innovative projects that drive national development.”
The Chair of the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, Professor Asimina Antonarakou, added: “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration that enhances innovation, geoscientific research, and education in Greece. This partnership creates a framework for knowledge exchange, sharing of research data, and transfer of expertise, with the aim of promoting the sustainable management of geological resources and the protection of the environment.”
This Memorandum of Understanding marks the start of a strong alliance that will strengthen geological research in Greece, advance innovation and academic education in the geosciences, and deliver tangible benefits to both the scientific community and Greek society as a whole.