Scientific interests of Prof. Krzysztof Pabis focus on the biology and ecology of organisms inhabiting the seabed of the tropical East Atlantic (West Africa) and polar regions. His second area of interest includes ecology of butterflies and moths. He is also a science populariser, an author of several educational books (all in Polish) addressed to children and adult readers, including: "Why a butterfly eats a fly", "Insectarium – the genius of insects" and "The private life of ants".
What inspired you to become a scientist?
My passion for observing nature started in primary school. I always say that the time spent with my grandmother in the countryside, near Lodz, was for me what the island of Corfu was for the naturalist Gerald Durrell – my personal microcosm. The direct, everyday contact with the natural world aroused curiosity and surprise, which is the basis of every scientist's activity. And so, it has remained ever since.
What impact does your work have on the surrounding reality?
My work can be a small contribution to the construction of an environmental protection system of threatened areas of Earth. Our African and Antarctic research can help in conservation planning of areas affected by oil extraction or global warming. On the other hand, I have the impression that educational or popularisation activities may have a broader impact because their language is more open, enabling a change in thinking about nature, its protection and importance.
How do you understand the term: profession of a scientist?
A scientist should look for answers to questions about the mechanisms of complex processes that shape reality. This profession requires a passion, a childlike sense of wonder at reality, but also a desire to share knowledge with others, which is why for me an indispensable part of this work is popularisation and education, but also critical thinking and courage in expressing opinions.
More information about Prof. Krzysztof Pabis’s work
Professor Krzysztof Pabis Has Been Appointed a Member of the Committee on Polar Research
Podróż po świecie motyli - rozmowa o książce "Dlaczego motyl zjada muchę" [A journey through the world of butterflies – a conversation about the book "Why a Butterfly Eats a Fly"] (podcast on TOK FM radio)
Selected educational books for children and adults:
- Krzysztof Pabis opowiada o owadach świata [Krzysztof Pabis talks about insects of the world]
- Owadziarium czyli geniusz owadów [Insectarium – the genius of insects]
- Dlaczego motyl zjada muchę [Why a butterfly eats a fly]
- Gąsienice w czekoladzie i inne tajemnice motyli [Chocolate covered caterpillars and other butterfly secrets]
- Owady i pajęczaki [Insects and arachnids]
- Prywatne życie mrówek [The private life of ants]
- Motyle dzienne Łodzi (download a free of charge PDF) [Daily butterflies of Lodz]
A fragment from the book "Owadziarium czyli geniusz owadów" [Insectarium – the genius of insects] Publisher: MULTICO Publishing House. Illustrations: Marta Tęcza
Scientific achievements
ORCID
SCOPUS
Research Gate
Web of Science
Source: Prof. Krzysztof Pabis (Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection at the University of Lodz)
Edit: Michał Gruda (Communications and PR Centre, University of Lodz)
The mission of the University of Lodz is to conduct reliable research and actively disseminate facts and research results so as to wisely educate future generations, be useful to society and courageously respond to the challenges of the modern world. Scientific excellence is always our best compass. Our values include: courage, curiosity, commitment, cooperation and respect.