Professor Costas Synolakis

Prof. of Civil Environmental and Aerospace Engineering, University of Southern California, Member of the United States National Academy of Sciences and the Academy of Athens

Costas Synolakis is a Professor at the University of Southern California and one of the world’s leading international experts in ocean waves and extreme coastal phenomena. For more than four decades, he has studied extreme natural hazards, combining theoretical research, laboratory experimentation and extensive field investigations following major natural disasters around the globe.

He has advised governments and international organisations on tsunami risk reduction, coastal resilience and climate change adaptation, and has played a pivotal role in the development of modern early warning systems. He is a member of the United States National Academy of Sciences and the Academy of Athens, and has received numerous prestigious international awards in recognition of his scientific achievements and public service.

Beyond his research, he is deeply engaged in bridging science with policy and decision-making, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable coastal communities.