About.
Archaeologist, Commercial Diver, and Underwater Explorer
I’m Thomas Iossifidis, an archaeologist and commercial diver based in Athens, Greece. Born in Paris in 1979, I grew up in Athens and have been hooked on uncovering the past—especially beneath the waves—ever since. With a degree in archaeology from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and a master’s in maritime archaeology from the University of Thessaly, I’m now diving deeper into coastal geoarchaeology as a PhD candidate at NKUA (started in January 2025).
My journey in archaeology kicked off in 2006 with land-based digs, but in 2009, I took the plunge into underwater archaeology. Since then, I’ve been part of maritime archaeology missions across Greece and beyond, chasing stories hidden in shipwrecks and submerged landscapes. My passions? Underwater and environmental archaeology. I’m always learning, sharing my work at Greek and international conferences, and pushing the boundaries of what we can discover about our past.
When I’m not excavating, I’m in the water as a commercial diver. I’ve been diving recreationally since 1998 and went pro in 2006. In 2009, I founded my own diving company, tackling everything from aquaculture maintenance to underwater photography and scientific research projects. As a diving supervisor since 2014 (per Greek port regulations), I bring hands-on expertise to every project. My goal? To blend my diving skills with my love for archaeology to shine a light on underwater heritage and inspire others to explore it.
Whether you’re an expedition leader, a professor, or just curious about the past, I’m excited to connect and share my work. Let’s uncover history together!
Archaeological Expertise.
01. Terrestrial archaeological research and excavations.
Conducting and participating in land-based archaeological digs to uncover artifacts, structures, and insights into historical cultures.
02. Maritime archaeology.
Specializing in the study of human interaction with the sea, including maritime trade, shipbuilding, and submerged cultural heritage.
03. Maritime archaeological excavations.
Investigating & excavating submerged sites, such as shipwrecks and underwater landscapes, to explore historical and environmental narratives.
04. Environmental archaeology.
Examining the relationship between humans and their environment through the study of artifacts, ecofacts, and landscapes.
05. Coastal geoarchaeology.
Researching coastal sites to understand geological and archaeological changes over time, often related to human activity.
Collaborative Partners.
I’m proud to collaborate with an incredible network of archaeological institutes, schools, and experts from around the world. Together, we’re pushing the boundaries of research and fieldwork, striving for academic excellence, and deepening our collective understanding of history and heritage.
Institute of Historical & Archaeological Research
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens