METROPOLITAN NIKOLAOS (HATZINI KOLAOU)
has degrees in Physics, Astrophysics, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering and Applied Mathematics, Theological Studies, and Theology. In 2003, he received a Ph.D. in Theology from the University of Thessaloniki on Orthodox Christian Ethics and Bioethics and has been awarded the honorary title of Doctor of Social Theology by the University of Athens.

He has worked as a researcher and scientific partner in hospitals and as a scientific advisor in Space Medical Technology in the U.S. Upon his return to Greece in 1989, he was tonsured a monk in Mount Athos and then ordained a deacon and a priest. In 2004, he was elected a Metropolitan of Mesogaia and Lavreotiki. Among his other activities, he founded the first hospice in Greece under the auspices of the Church. He is the author of numerous theological and scientific writings and a frequent participant in conferences regarding a
broad spectrum of social and bioethical issues, and the relationship between Orthodox theology and modern science.