The Israel Young Academy is pleased to announce the election of seven exceptional early-career researchers as new members. These scientists have demonstrated excellence in research, original thinking, and a strong commitment to public engagement and the advancement of science in Israeli society.

The newly elected members are:
•    Prof. Iair Arcavi – Astrophysics, Tel Aviv University
•    Prof. Yonatan Belinkov – Computer Science, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology 
•    Prof. Moran Bercovici – Mechanical Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology 
•    Prof. Gil Cohen – Computer Science, Tel Aviv University
•    Dr. Nitzan Gonen – Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University
•    Prof. Orly Lewis – Classical Studies, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
•    Dr. Roni Porat – Political Science & International Relations, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

The Israel Young Academy was established in 2012 at the initiative of the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities and operates as an independent body with its support. Members are selected from among Israel’s most promising researchers under the age of 45, for a four-year term.

The Academy’s mission is to promote the status of young scientists, strengthen the interface between science and public policy, foster dialogue between science and society, encourage interdisciplinary and international collaborations, and lead public science initiatives. All activities are undertaken on a voluntary basis, driven by a sense of mission and a desire to make an impact.

Membership is granted through a rigorous selection process governed by strict regulations. Scientific excellence is the primary criterion, alongside a commitment to broad representation of Israel’s academic community and balanced disciplinary diversity. 

Prof. Assaf Shwartz, Chair of the Israel Young Academy’s Steering Committee, congratulated the new members:
“The Israel Young Academy is proud to welcome seven outstanding new members this year, exceptional researchers with impressive achievements and meaningful contributions both within academia and beyond. Their appointment comes at a particularly challenging time, when the importance of Israeli academia is more evident than ever, not only as a driver of scientific and technological innovation and as a cornerstone in cultivating Israel’s human capital, but also as a guardian of the values of knowledge, commitment to truth, freedom of thought, public responsibility, and social resilience. Together with current and alumni members of the Israel Young Academy, the new members will help continue strengthening science and society in Israel.”