Award of Excellence from the Republic of Cyprus to Professor Phoebe Koundouri

We are delighted to announce that Professor Phoebe Koundouri has been honoured with the Award of Excellence of the Republic of Cyprus, conferred by the Academy of Sciences, Letters and Arts of the Republic of Cyprus.

The Award of Excellence of the Republic of Cyprus is the highest distinction bestowed by the Republic, recognizing distinguished and leading personalities in the sciences, letters, and arts who have made significant and internationally acknowledged contributions in their fields. The Award also honours individuals connected to Cyprus who have made a significant contribution to advancing the sciences, letters, or arts, either within Cyprus or abroad.

Professor Koundouri stated:

“Receiving the Award of Excellence from the Republic of Cyprus, presented by the Academy of Sciences, Letters and Arts, is an immense honour and a deeply meaningful recognition. It is the highest distinction bestowed by the Republic, and I am truly humbled to be its recipient.  This recognition celebrates my 30 years of pioneering interdisciplinary mathematical systems that foster sustainable interactions between nature, society, and the economy.

This award carries both personal and professional significance, as Cyprus—my birthplace—has been at the core of my journey. It is a country deeply intertwined with my research, my collaborations, my friendships, and my family, and it has shaped my vision in ways I will forever cherish.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Achilles Emilianides and to the esteemed Fellows of the Academy—including many distinguished scholars and honorees—for this profound recognition. To be selected by such an accomplished body is both a great honour and a lasting responsibility

This award is dedicated to my late father, Christos Koundouris—the eternal wind beneath my wings.”

The decision was taken during the 66th Plenary Session of the Academy, held on 17 September 2025, following the recommendation of the Class of Ethical, Economic and Political Sciences.

Read the full announcement of the Academy here