Tzelina Harlaftis

Tzelina Harlaftis is a Professor of Maritime History at the Department of History and Archaeology, University of Crete. Since 2017, she has served as Director of the Institute of Mediterranean Studies under the Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH). Her academic journey includes roles as Professor at the Ionian University (2003–2019), Lecturer at the University of Piraeus (1990–2003), and visiting positions at institutions like All Souls College (Oxford) and Harvard Business School.

• Education:
  • University of Athens (undergraduate)
  • M.Phil. in Economic and Social History, University of Cambridge
  • D.Phil. in Maritime History, University of Oxford

Research Interests span Maritime History, Business History, and Diaspora Studies, with a focus on Greek shipping networks, economic globalization, and the role of the sea as a dynamic historical agent. Her work bridges Maritime Economics, Historical Sociology, and Global Trade Systems, emphasizing transnational and interdisciplinary approaches.

Recent Publications highlight trends in Global Shipping (2019), Black Sea Trade Networks (2020), and Historical Credit Systems (2019). These works analyze the evolution of shipping firms like the Onassis and Vagliano Brothers, connecting maritime activities to broader themes such as European Integration and Post-War Economic Revival.

Professional Contributions include leadership roles in the International Maritime History Association (2004–2008) and editorial work on journals like the International Journal of Maritime History. She has supervised numerous research projects and mentored early-career scholars, particularly in under-researched areas like Eastern Mediterranean piracy and Black Sea port-cities.