On May 23, 2025, a solemn event was held in the Conference Hall of the Institute of Solid State Physics “Acad. Georgi Nadzhakov” at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences to mark the opening of the temporary exhibition “The Study of Acad. Alexander G. Petrov.”
The event was dedicated to the legacy and personality of Acad. Petrov – a world-renowned scientist in the field of liquid crystal and soft matter physics, long-time Director of the Institute of Solid State Physics – BAS, and a leading figure in the scientific community in Bulgaria and abroad.
The official program was opened by Prof. Yordan Marinov, Head of the Department of Soft Matter Physics, who welcomed the audience – scientists, colleagues, representatives of the scientific and academic community, as well as the family of Acad. Petrov. In his address, Prof. Marinov outlined the key milestones in the academician’s scientific career and his contribution to the establishment of the Bulgarian school in soft matter physics and biophysics. A highlight of the program was the screening of the short documentary film “The Path of Science – Alexander Petrov,” which portrayed both the scientific achievements and the human character of one of Bulgaria’s most remarkable physicists.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angelina Stoyanova, Chair of the General Assembly of Scientists, delivered an emotional greeting to the audience and expressed gratitude to the academician’s family for their support. As a token of appreciation, on behalf of the Institute she presented a commemorative plaque to his son, Mr. Alex Petrov, who also shared a brief and heartfelt message with the attendees.
Further words honoring Acad. Petrov’s contribution to the development of physics in Bulgaria were delivered by Prof. Mario Gaidarov, Editor-in-Chief of the Bulgarian Journal of Physics, Prof. Ivan Lalov, member of the Board of the Union of Physicists in Bulgaria, and Assoc. Prof. Vasil Lovchunov, Deputy Director of the Institute during Acad. Petrov’s tenure.
A particularly moving moment was the presentation of the temporary exhibition “The Study of Acad. Petrov.” Prof. Marinov spoke about the concept and realization of the recreated atmosphere of the academician’s personal study, which includes his desk, personal belongings, scientific works, and photographs. Guests had the opportunity to view part of the exhibition through a prepared slideshow, and later in person. The study will remain open for visits throughout the following month, by prior arrangement.
The event concluded with a reception kindly hosted by the family of Acad. Petrov – a gesture of gratitude to all who shared this special day of remembrance and appreciation.
