Gubkin Dynasties. The History of the Postnikov Family
We are Olga and Alexander Postnikov, brother and sister, representatives of the second generation of our family dynasty of geologists. Since childhood, we were surrounded by people of science, expeditions, rock samples and endless conversations about geology. Our parents have come a long and difficult way, dedicating their lives to this science, and it seems that we simply could not choose another path.
Teplova and Vasily Georgievich
Postnikov in their youth, 1939-1940
1956-1958
Our parents met in their youth, and in 1939 they entered the university. My father initially chose physics, but soon transferred to the geology department following my mother. Their student years were difficult times: food shortages, harsh conditions. During the war, they worked on expeditions, searched for minerals, and helped the front.
and Irina Evgenyevna Postnikov, 1955
After the war, their home in Moscow became a center of attraction for scientists, students, and young professionals. The entire Soviet Union called them "mother and father" - people came to them not only for scientific consultations, but also just to receive support.
Alexander Postnikov: "My pregnant mother and two-year-old older brother went on an expedition to the mouth of the Yenisei, to Malaya Khita, and that's where I was born. That is, I was born on an expedition! I have been collecting stones since I was five, not knowing that they were minerals and rocks. I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t interested in stones. That’s what I am – a stone man! Well, later I entered the university, defended my doctoral dissertation, became a professor and an honored geologist.”
Olga Postnikova: “As a child, I dreamed of becoming a trainer of small dogs, but when I was more conscious, my love for science took over. I graduated from the university in 1974, was actively involved in science, worked on expeditions, and later became the dean of the geological faculty.”
with her father
of the student scientific society,
1975
with students
Geology is not just a profession, it is a way of life. It is so exciting that even those who were not initially connected with it get involved in it. For example, our nephew continued the dynasty, and other family members, although they chose other specialties, are still connected with geology in one way or another.
Our dynasty has always been not only about science, but also about people. We are sure: students must be loved!
