One of the guest lecturers for the “Quanta” Master’s Degree Program in Quantum and Mesoscopic Physics is Associate Professor of the Department of Materials Science at the University of Patras in Greece Christos Garoufalis, who learned about the Master’s Degree Program from his Armenian colleagues, was really interested in the idea and believed that he must participate in the program through teaching.

“This is very important for me. I met new researchers and got a better understanding of Armenia’s scientific potential. I believe I can also share my experience. I know that Armenia is taking actions for high performance computing technologies, and so, this will become a serious prospect for active partnership. I can’t wait to see how it will turn out,” Christos Garoufalis said.

The “My Step” Foundation has been implementing the “Quanta” Program since 2022 and has been providing funding for the students’ tuitions (in the form of scholarships) and for remuneration of the guest lecturers. Professor Garoufalis is in Armenia for two weeks with a full agenda and is focused on computing material studies. According to him, one needs to have a theoretical foundation to master this subject.

“So, most of the lectures are devoted to theory and methods. We also enhance practical and applied knowledge,” Professor Garoufalis emphasized.

The specialist started showing interest in physics when he was very young. In the beginning, it was a hobby, but then he began to explore physics in more depth as a student at the university and specialized in computing materials science. “I fell in love with the mix of science and quantum mechanics,” the guest lecturer highlighted.

“You never get tied in this area of science, and it always helps open new opportunities. I also motivate students to discover new horizons and keep working. What is inspiring is when they decide to continue the path of science after working together, and I already have such students,” Christos Garoufalis said.

According to him, Armenian students have a large stock of knowledge of mathematics and physics, and this is impressive. The guest lecturer said he had heard about this from his colleagues who had worked with Armenians and now, based on his own experience, he became convinced. With joy and satisfaction, he stated that he is glad to work in Armenia and added that having quality students is a tradition in Armenia.