Speakers

Polish hydrogeologist, academic teacher and professor of Earth sciences. In 2008-2016 he held the position of vice-rector of the University of Silesia for research and collaboration with industry, the rector of the University of Silesia in Katowice in 2016-2020.

Between 1973 and 1975 Prof. Kowalczyk worked as an assistant designer in the voivodship office in Olsztyn and in a geological company in Cracow. Since 1975 he has been professionally associated with the University of Silesia in Katowice. He also worked as a lecturer in Algeria, at Ecole des Mines in Miljan in 1986-1987, and at the Institut de I'Hydraulique in Szalifa in 1987-1991. 

In 1991, he became assistant professor at the Department of Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology at the Faculty of Earth Sciences, University of Silesia. He was awarded the title of professor in 2007.

At the University of Silesia, Prof. Kowalczyk was the head of the Engineering Geology Department (1998-2004), in 2004 he became the curator of the Department of Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology. Between 2002 and 2005 he was a vice-dean for student affairs, then until 2008 – the vice-dean for research. Between 2008 and 2016 he was the vice-rector of the University of Silesia for research and collaboration with industry. In March 2016 he was elected rector of the University for the 2016-2020 term.

Prof. Kowalczyk specializes in hydrogeology, water management and environmental geology. He participated in international projects, including framework programs of the European Union, as well as in several research projects of the Committee for Scientific Research and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

He is the author and co-author of over 110 scientific and implementation studies of the nature of studies, documentations and expert opinions carried out as part of cooperation with scientific institutions, state and local government administration and enterprises. He holds membership of numerous organizations, including Polish National Committee of the International Hydrologists Association, International Mine Water Association and International Association of Hydrogeologists. Prof. Kowalczyk has been appointed to various advisory and scientific bodies, including the Polish Geological Institute.

In 2015 he received the Golden Laurel of Skills and Competences in the field of science and innovation awarded by the Regional Chamber of Commerce in Katowice.