Dear friends,

Finding the right time to send out this month’s eConnect, with its positive focus on groundbreaking research and exciting upcoming events, is challenging amid the ongoing heartbreak in Israel and deep sorrow surrounding Wednesday’s funerals for Kfir, Ariel, and Shiri Bibas. With many businesses closing to allow employees to pay their respects and participate in the funeral procession, we recognize the weight of this moment.

There is no "right" time, but as our tradition teaches, "Zekher tzadik livrakha"—"May the memory of the righteous be a blessing." This reminds us of the importance of remembering the deceased with love and positivity, even amidst sorrow, thus allowing us to carry on while cherishing their memory.

With this in mind, great things continue to happen at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU). On my recent visit to BGU, I had the privilege of meeting over 30 researchers. There simply weren’t enough hours in the day—BGU is home to an astonishing amount of cutting-edge research, and this group of 30 barely scratches the surface!

Here are two examples of the incredible research happening at BGU:

·      Professor Tomer Hertz combines computational approaches with systems immunology to study vaccines and diseases. Specifically, he investigates the role of immune history and memory—how past infections influence the body’s response to future ones. His theory suggests that the immune system’s memory can accurately predict how a person will react to future infections. Ultimately, his research will help physicians tailor treatments to individual patients.

·      Professor Joshua Baraban is a chemist focused on sustainable energy and environmental science. His research uses lasers to study how molecules behave in extreme environments, contributing to solutions for reducing humanity’s impact on the planet. His work is critical in addressing the growing global demand for cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. Dr. Baraban’s research holds the potential to revolutionize industries and combat climate change by creating more energy-efficient and eco-friendly solutions.

Whether in AI, cybersecurity, autism, climate change, or countless other important fields, the labs at BGU are buzzing with innovation and collaboration!

In the shadow of October 7th and amidst deep trauma, BGU researchers remain unwavering in their commitment to making the world a better place.

This simple fact continues to inspire and awe.

Andrea