I am a graduate of the Institute of Russian Studies at the University of Łódź and a student of one of the doyens of Polish literary translation studies, Professor Zygmunt Grosbart, who supervised my master’s thesis (1985), guided my doctoral studies (1993), and supported my further academic career. I managed to secure a full-time assistant position just before defending my doctoral dissertation—prior to that, I was employed in a technical and engineering role. Therefore, I can say that I know academic work inside out, especially since I have progressed through all stages of an academic career—from assistant, through a doctorate and an adjunct position, then habilitation and university professorship, to the title of extraordinary professor and, eventually, the full professorship (2013), followed by tenure (currently a full professor position).

For several years, I have been the head of the Department of Translation and Didactics, previously leading the Department (later the Section) of Russian Literature. As part of my work and related interests, I primarily focus on teaching translation theory, criticism, and practice.

In October 2024, I assumed the position of Director of the Institute of Russian Studies at the University of Łódź.

Apart from my work-related interests, which focus on literary studies and translation issues, my passion is poetry translation, which I treat somewhat like solving crossword puzzles—another activity I enjoy. Additionally, I love reading—it has always been my passion. I also enjoy listening to classical music, which helps me unwind, as well as Latin music, which makes me want to dance. I am also fond of traveling, exploring new places, meeting people, learning about different customs, and tasting local cuisine.

When I think about my achievements, the first thing that comes to mind is my academic career. I believe that attaining a professorship is undoubtedly a significant accomplishment. However, what brings me the greatest joy is knowing that my books are not merely decorations on shelves but are actively used by other educators and scholars in their work—and that students read them. I also take pride in the achievements of my students and doctoral candidates, one of whom has already earned a habilitation degree.

Beyond my academic work, I consider the publication of a poetry collection and numerous translations to be personal successes. These include translations of Marina Tsvetaeva’s poems in a bilingual volume edited by Andrei Bazilevsky, as well as her Poem of the Mountain. Additionally, I highly value my interdisciplinary collaboration with musicologist Jerzy Stankiewicz, which led to the publication of sheet music and recordings of works by the composers Alexandre and Constantin Regamey, with my consultation, essay, and translations of Russian texts.

Finally, I consider having a family one of my greatest successes. Without their support, I likely would not have been able to achieve everything that brings me joy today.