The staff of the Institute of Zoology warmly congratulates Professor Sofiya Maksimovna Romanova, Doctor of Geographical Sciences, Chief Researcher of the Laboratory of Hydrobiology and Ecotoxicology, on her 75th ANNIVERSARY!

The life path and scientific work of Sofiya Maksimovna are a vivid example of diligence, talent, and dedication to science.
For more than half a century she has devoted herself to the study of the chemistry of natural waters, ecology, and ecotoxicology, leaving a significant mark on the development of science in Kazakhstan. Her scientific ideas formed the basis for fundamental research into hydrochemical processes, water quality issues, and the self-purification of aquatic ecosystems.
She is the author and co-author of over 560 scientific publications, including monographs and teaching and methodological manuals, among them:
• Lake Balkhash – a unique hydroecological system. – Almaty: DOIVA-Bratstvo, 2003. – 176 p. /Co-author: B. Kazangapov.
• Hydrochemistry and hydroecology of irrigation systems of Kazakhstan (Ili river basin). – Almaty: DOIVA-Bratstvo, 2003. – 181 p.
• Chemistry of natural waters: lecture course. – Almaty: DOIVA-Bratstvo, 2004. – 200 p.
• Practical course in inorganic chemistry /ed. M. M. Burkitbaev, K. B. Bekishev. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2005. – 230 p. /Co-authors: N. N. Nurakhmetov, G. S. Kuanysheva, M. R. Tanasheva (et al.).
• Practical course in inorganic chemistry: textbook /ed. prof. M. M. Burkitbaev, R. G. Ryskalieva. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2005. – 277 p. /Contributors: N. N. Nurakhmetov, G. S. Kuanysheva, M. R. Tanasheva.
• Hydrochemistry and physico-chemistry of cooling reservoirs of Kazakhstan: textbook. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2007. – 242 p. /Co-author: G. V. Taranina.
• Practical course in hydrochemistry: teaching-methodical manual. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2007. – 82 p.
• Questions and exercises for the course on managing chemical-technological processes: teaching manual. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2008. – 145 p. /Co-author: P. F. Ryskaliev.
• Closed water bodies of Kazakhstan. Vol.1. Hydrochemical regime: teaching manual. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2008. – 250 p.
• Practical course in inorganic chemistry /ed. M. Burkitbaev. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2009. – 175 p. /Co-authors: N. N. Nurakhmetov, G. S. Kuanysheva, M. R. Tanasheva et al.
• Practical course in inorganic chemistry: textbook /ed. prof. M. M. Burkitbaev, R. G. Ryskalieva. – Almaty: Kazakh University, 2009. – 195 p. /Contributors: N. N. Nurakhmetov, G. S. Kuanysheva, M. R. Tanasheva.
Her pedagogical contribution is no less significant. For over 45 years she worked at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, rising from senior laboratory assistant to professor of the Department of Inorganic Chemistry. At the university she taught courses in general and inorganic chemistry, hydrochemistry, ecology, and led lectures, seminars and laboratory classes for students of the chemistry, biology and geography faculties. Under her supervision dozens of masters and PhD candidates were trained, many of whom continue their careers in science.
In recent years Romanova S.M. has been working at the Institute of Zoology, where she carries out hydrochemical research and trains young specialists, shaping a new generation of scientists.
Sofiya Maksimovna is an example of wisdom, kindness, diligence, activity, high responsibility and love for nature. Her contribution to Kazakhstani science and education cannot be overestimated.
The 75th anniversary is not only a momentous date but also an occasion to express deep gratitude for all the years of hard work, loyalty to the cause, and the inspiration she provides to colleagues and students.
We wish Sofiya Maksimovna strong health, energy, happiness, well-being, longevity and further scientific achievements!
With respect and affection, the Institute staff.
17.09.2025