“Our special features lie hidden in centuries-old collections”
Interview with Zoltán Korsós, new director-general of the Hungarian Natural History Museum
MúzeumCafé 38.
After a period of difficulties, it seems the fate of the Hungarian Natural History Museum is assured. Since December 2011 the spectre of again having to move has been haunting the museum. Although the National University of Public Service took possession of the Orczy Garden, the museum, in contrast with a previous plan, will not have to move. Considering the financial implications of constructing a new building and the problems involved with moving, the museum can remain as a ‘sub-tenant’ in its present location. At the same time, the position of director-general has been filled. Zoltán Korsós, a member of the museum’s staff, made an application. He aims to renew the museum’s strategy. Zoologist Dr Zoltán Korsós has worked for 31 years at the Hungarian Natural History Museum. His is an acknowledged international specialist in his field. He has a PhD in biological science, is an honorary professor of the St. Stephen University and vice-president of the Hungarian Biology Association. He is the author of 165 scientific papers and about 200 educational articles. He has travelled the world as a specialist, undertaking research in more than 50 countries. He spent the past three years as a visiting professor in Okinawa and is currently a leading member of numerous EU and Council of Europe bodies. Dr. Korsós believes the museum’s inner equilibrium has to be re-established. Traditionally, the Natural History Museum has been an institute putting science at its centre. Yet recently scientific work has been taking a back seat since its funding body and the guiding EU principles have a preference for public service and social use. However, the museum cannot fulfil its role without the scientific processing of its collections.