Archil K. Dondua (1929–2021)

Professor of St. Petersburg State University Archil K. Dondua (1929–2021) is known for his pioneering work in the developmental biology of annelids and vertebrates, the kinetics of cell populations in ontogenesis, and comparative embryological aspects of animal evolution. Prof. Dondua created and led an academic school and paid a special attention to the fundamental problems of developmental biology and embraced modern scientific trends. Prof. Dondua established new courses at St. Petersburg State University and wrote monographs and textbooks in the field of developmental biology, evolutionary biology and the history of science. He also served as the President of the St. Petersburg Society of Naturalists, and was engaged in science popularization, supported young talented scientists and participated in re-establishment of the Alexander Kowalevsky Medal.