In memory of professor Andrzej Prejs

06 05 2025

Professor Andrzej Prejs, an ichthyologist, hydrobiologist and ecologist, died on 30 April 2025. From the beginning of his studies in 1959 until his retirement in 2010, he was associated with the Faculty of Biology and Earth Sciences and later with the Faculty of Biology at the University of Warsaw.

In 1965, he began an internship at the Department of Hydrobiology, where he remained until the end of his career. He obtained his Ph.D. in 1971, his habilitation in ecology in 1985 and the title of professor in 1999.

His scientific interests focused on fish ecology and its role in the functioning of lake ecosystems, as well as biomanipulation as a method of lake reclamation. He was the author of several dozen scientific papers (including books) in this field, which are still cited in the specialist literature. He was also a creative teacher, much appreciated by his students.

In addition to his scientific and teaching activities, he was involved in organizational activities at the University. He was, among others, the Rector’s representative for employees’ social and living conditions, the head of the Postgraduate Studies in Environmental Protection and Development, the deputy director of the University Centre for Environmental Research, the Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Biology and the director of the Institute of Zoology.

He was an irreplaceable animator and participant, as well as an insightful commentator on social and political life, especially during the turbulent historical periods, March 1968, the Solidarity era, martial law, or the Round Table.

For us, his students and colleagues, Andrzej was an inspiring researcher, an excellent companion, and an extraordinary personality.