The Polish Geological Institute - National Research Institute is now 105 years old. It is not only the largest scientific research institution in Polish geology, but also the oldest institution of its kind in the country.

It was established shortly after Poland regained its independence and, for the people who formed it, was from the outset an ambitious and far-reaching undertaking of national importance. The young state needed mineral riches to create a strong industry, and the Poles needed economic autonomy, in addition to independence.

To meet these expectations, the Institute has brought together top experts ready to put the research work on a fast track right away. They were also looking for role models for action. Professor Józef Morozewicz when he took over as the first director of PGI asserted: "In carrying out this task, I will follow the example of the best institutions of this type in Europe and America." Looking back, it must be said that he fulfilled this ambitious task to the letter. He became an inspiration to his successors. The institute was shaped from the efforts of enthusiasts and top-class professionals.

The staff of the National Geological Institute, with prof. Józef Morozewicz in the lead, 1930.

The building of the Polish Geological Institute in 1926.

The effort to form the Institute was interrupted by the Second World War. During the German occupation, many of the Institute's staff were killed, the buildings were destroyed almost entirely and the loss of the museum's collection was estimated at 70 per cent.

Destroyed building of the Polish Geological Institute

After the war, the PGI building was quickly rebuilt so that scientists and researchers could return to work. Their enthusiasm and awareness of the country's needs has brought great results. The list of discoveries made during the first post-war decades is impressive. The scientific and research achievements of PGI's geologists have enabled Poland's intensive economic development. Geological surveys have led to the discovery of deposits of sulphur, barite, copper ore, coal and lignite, among others. Poland has become a major world leader in mineral resources. The reliable fulfilment of the tasks of the Polish Geological Survey has not only brought the expected economic, but also social effects. PGI has expanded its scientific base by creating a network of regional branches. The late 1970s were marked by a crisis in geology and a slow decline in the amount of money spent on resource exploration.

Employees of the Polish Geological Institute in 1947.

The 21st century has brought new tasks related to the establishment of a state hydrogeological survey. The Institute was given the prestigious status of a National Research Institute. Scientific activity has taken a new turn. The institute continues to carry out research in recognising the geological structure of the country. Expert knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment make the results of the work increasingly precise and accessible. The institute continues to provide knowledge about mineral resources, groundwater resources and helping to protect the environment.

SHRIMP ion microprobe

For 105 years, the Polish Geological Institute has established a high position in the scientific world and international recognition from industrial circles. In a digital world, it has become a brand and a guide, setting new trends in methodology and research. It lays the foundations for environmental management, with particular attention to geological resources.

The institute nurtures a highly qualified cadre of experts using the knowledge of current and former employees. The freedom of scientific research and the regime of the Polish Geological Survey are features that allow them to develop their own competences and influence the economic success of Poland. Today, PGI - NRI can be a model not only of a well-functioning research institute, but also of a geological survey. Here, remembering the past looks boldly to the future.

Geological data browser - portal geologia.pgi.gov.pl

Text: Artur Baranowski