Famous Israeli Scientists

Ada E. Yonath is an Israeli crystallographer renowned for her groundbreaking research on ribosomes. As the director of the Helen and Milton A. Kimmelman Center for Biomolecular Structure and Assembly at the Weizmann Institute of Science, she has made significant contributions to the field of chemistry. In 2009, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her work on the structure and function of ribosomes, making her the first Israeli woman and the first woman from the Middle East to receive this prestigious honor in the sciences.

Judea Pearl is an influential Israeli-American computer scientist and philosopher known for advancing the probabilistic approach to artificial intelligence and Bayesian networks. He has made significant contributions to the fields of causal and counterfactual inference through the development of structural models. In 2011, he received the prestigious Turing Award from the ACM for his groundbreaking work in artificial intelligence. Pearl is also a prolific author, with notable books such as "Causality: Models, Reasoning and Inference" and "The Book of Why" aimed at both technical and general audiences.

Natan Sharansky is an Israeli politician, human rights activist, and author. He served as Chairman of the Executive for the Jewish Agency from June 2009 to August 2018. Currently, he serves as Chairman for the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP), an American non-partisan organization. A former Soviet dissident, Sharansky spent nine years imprisoned as a refusenik during the 1970s and 1980s, before becoming a prominent figure advocating for human rights and fighting against antisemitism on a global scale.

Adi Shamir is a prominent Israeli cryptographer and inventor known for his groundbreaking contributions in the fields of cryptography and computer science. He is widely recognized as a co-inventor of the widely-used RSA algorithm, along with Ron Rivest and Len Adleman. Additionally, he played a key role in co-inventing the Feige–Fiat–Shamir identification scheme with Uriel Feige and Amos Fiat, and was instrumental in the development of differential cryptanalysis. Shamir's work has significantly advanced the realm of cybersecurity and encryption technologies.

Dan Shechtman is a distinguished professor of Materials Science at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology and Iowa State University. He is also an Associate of the US Department of Energy's Ames National Laboratory. Shechtman made a groundbreaking discovery in 1982 while on sabbatical at the U.S. National Bureau of Standards in Washington, D.C., leading to the establishment of a new field in quasiperiodic crystals. This discovery earned him the prestigious 2011 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering figure in the scientific community.

Jacob Bekenstein was a theoretical physicist known for his groundbreaking work in black hole thermodynamics and the relationship between information and gravitation. His research made significant contributions to the foundational understanding of black holes, particularly in the development of the concept that black holes have entropy and can emit radiation. Bekenstein's work has had a lasting impact on the field of physics, influencing further research and shaping our understanding of the fundamental properties of black holes and the nature of information in the universe.

Nathan Rosen was an accomplished physicist known for his significant contributions to the study of the hydrogen molecule's structure and pioneering work on entangled wave functions with Albert Einstein and Boris Podolsky, leading to the formulation of the EPR paradox. His collaboration with Einstein also resulted in the concept of the Einstein-Rosen bridge, the first known theoretical model of a wormhole. Rosen's work in theoretical physics left a lasting impact on the understanding of quantum mechanics and space-time structures.

Moshé Feldenkrais was a Ukrainian-Israeli engineer and physicist known for founding the Feldenkrais Method, a system of physical exercise aimed at improving human functioning through increased self-awareness in movement. His theory emphasized the interconnectedness of thought, feeling, perception, and movement, highlighting their mutual influence. Feldenkrais dedicated his professional life to developing and promoting his method, which has since been recognized for its innovative approach to enhancing physical and mental well-being through conscious movement practices.

Robert Aumann is an Israeli-American mathematician known for his work in game theory analysis. He is a professor at the Center for the Study of Rationality in the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and holds a visiting position at Stony Brook University. Aumann is a founding member of the Stony Brook Center for Game Theory and a member of the United States National Academy of Sciences. In 2005, he was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences along with Thomas Schelling for his contributions to conflict and cooperation research.

Shafi Goldwasser is a renowned Israeli-American computer scientist known for her groundbreaking work in cryptography and computational complexity theory. She is the RSA Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT, a professor of mathematical sciences at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, and the director of the Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing at UC Berkeley. Additionally, she is the co-founder and chief scientist of Duality Technologies, where she continues to make significant contributions to the field of computer science.

Michael O. Rabin is an Israeli mathematician and computer scientist known for his significant contributions to the fields of theoretical computer science and cryptography. He is a recipient of the prestigious Turing Award for his pioneering work in the development of algorithms, automata theory, and probabilistic algorithms. Rabin is widely recognized for his research on primality testing, complexity theory, and the development of cryptographic protocols. His work continues to influence advancements in computer science and mathematics worldwide.

Mathilde Krim was a prominent medical researcher known for her groundbreaking work in the field of AIDS research. She played a pivotal role in the fight against HIV/AIDS by founding and serving as the chairman of amfAR, the American Foundation for AIDS Research. Krim's dedication and leadership were instrumental in raising awareness, funding research, and advocating for those affected by the disease. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on the medical community's understanding of and response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Daniel Mark Lewin was an American mathematician and entrepreneur known for co-founding Akamai Technologies. His professional life was marked by innovation and leadership in the tech industry. As a co-founder of Akamai, he played a crucial role in developing groundbreaking internet infrastructure technologies. Lewin's expertise in mathematics and entrepreneurship helped propel Akamai to success, becoming a prominent player in the technology sector. Tragically, his life was cut short during the September 11 attacks, where he is believed to have been the first victim, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and impact.

Elon Lindenstrauss is an Israeli mathematician known for winning the prestigious Fields Medal in 2010. He has been a professor at Princeton University since 2004 and was appointed as a Professor at the Einstein Institute of Mathematics at the Hebrew University in 2009. Lindenstrauss has made significant contributions to the field of mathematics through his research and teaching. His work has earned him recognition and respect within the academic community, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the field of mathematics.

Ephraim Katzir was an Israeli biophysicist and Labor Party politician who served as the fourth President of Israel from 1973 to 1978. He made significant contributions to the field of biophysics, particularly in the study of muscle contractions. Katzir played a key role in establishing research institutions in Israel and promoting scientific education. His leadership as President was characterized by a commitment to peace, diplomacy, and scientific advancement. Katzir's professional legacy continues to be honored in Israel and the scientific community worldwide.

Aaron Ciechanover is an Israeli biologist renowned for his groundbreaking work in characterizing the process by which cells degrade and recycle proteins through ubiquitin. His research has significantly advanced our understanding of cellular biology and has paved the way for new treatments for various diseases. Ciechanover's contributions to the field have been widely recognized, culminating in his receipt of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. He continues to be an influential figure in the scientific community, inspiring further research and innovation in the field of biochemistry.

Marcus Klingberg was an Israeli epidemiologist known for his contributions to infectious and noninfectious disease epidemiology and military medicine. He served as Chief Epidemiologist in the Soviet Union during World War II and later held a similar position in Poland. Klingberg joined the Israel Defence Force and then the Israel Institute for Biological Research, where he passed intelligence to the Soviet Union on Israel's biological and chemical warfare capacities. His espionage activities led to his arrest and imprisonment, but he later resumed scientific work.

Amir Pnueli was a prominent Israeli computer scientist known for his significant contributions to the field of computing. He was awarded the prestigious Turing Award in 1996 for his pioneering work in formal verification methods, specifically for introducing temporal logic into computing science. Pnueli's research focused on the development of mathematical techniques and tools for ensuring the correctness of computer systems, making him a leading figure in the areas of software engineering and computer science. His work continues to influence the design and verification of complex systems today.

Henry Markram is a prominent neuroscientist known for his work at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland. He serves as a professor and the director of the Blue Brain Project, a research initiative focused on simulating the mammalian brain. Markram is also the founder of the Human Brain Project, which aims to advance understanding of the human brain through various research efforts. Through his leadership and contributions to neuroscience, Markram has made significant strides in studying and simulating complex brain functions.

Ghada Karmi is a prominent Palestinian academic, physician, and author known for her insightful writings on Palestinian issues. She has contributed articles to reputable publications such as The Guardian, The Nation, and the Journal of Palestine Studies. Karmi's expertise and advocacy have made her a respected voice in discussions surrounding the Palestinian cause. Through her academic work and literary contributions, she continues to shed light on the complexities of the Palestinian struggle, amplifying their voices on a global platform.

Avram Hershko is a Hungarian-Israeli biochemist renowned for his groundbreaking work in the field of biochemistry. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2004 for his contribution to the discovery of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, a critical process for protein degradation in cells. Hershko's research has significantly advanced our understanding of cellular processes and has had a profound impact on the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. His work continues to inspire and influence scientists worldwide.

Yigael Yadin was a prominent figure in Israel, known for his contributions in archaeology, military, and politics. As an archaeologist, he led significant excavations in the region, uncovering ancient artifacts and historical insights. Yadin also served as the second Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, where he played a crucial role in shaping the country's military strategies. Additionally, he ventured into politics, holding the position of Deputy Prime Minister, further showcasing his diverse and impactful professional career.

Andi (Andrei) Gutmans is an Israeli programmer and entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the field of technology. He co-created PHP, a popular scripting language used for web development, and has played a key role in shaping the digital landscape. Gutmans has a strong track record of leadership and innovation, having co-founded multiple successful companies in the tech industry. His expertise and vision have made him a respected figure in the world of programming and entrepreneurship, inspiring many with his work.

Amir Aczel was a prominent figure in the field of mathematics and science, known for his expertise in both disciplines. As a lecturer, he shared his knowledge with audiences in the United States and beyond, delving into the history of mathematics and science to provide insights and understanding. Aczel also made significant contributions as an author, writing popular books that made complex mathematical and scientific concepts accessible to a wider audience. His work helped to inspire curiosity and appreciation for these subjects among readers of all backgrounds.

Mario Livio is an esteemed astrophysicist known for his work in popularizing science and mathematics. He spent 24 years as an astrophysicist at the Space Telescope Science Institute, focusing on topics such as cosmology, supernova explosions, black holes, extrasolar planets, and the origins of life in the universe. Livio has authored over 400 scientific articles and gained recognition for his book "The Golden Ratio: The Story of Phi, the World's Most Astonishing Number," which earned prestigious awards for its contribution to popularizing mathematical concepts.

Arieh Warshel is an Israeli-American biochemist and biophysicist known for his pioneering work in computational studies of biological molecules. He holds the Dana and David Dornsife Chair in Chemistry at the University of Southern California and is a Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Warshel was awarded the 2013 Nobel Prize in Chemistry along with Michael Levitt and Martin Karplus for their development of multiscale models for complex chemical systems. His professional contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of functional properties of biological molecules.

Daniela Schiller is a prominent neuroscientist heading the Affective Neuroscience Lab at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. She has garnered recognition for her extensive research on memory reconsolidation, focusing on the ways emotional learning and memory can be modified. Schiller's work in this field has significantly contributed to the understanding of how memories are formed and how they can be altered. Her expertise in affective neuroscience has led to groundbreaking discoveries that have advanced the scientific community's knowledge of memory processes and emotional responses.

Yuval Ne'eman was an Israeli theoretical physicist, military scientist, and politician. He served as the President of Tel Aviv University and later as the Minister of Science and Development in Israel. Ne'eman made significant contributions to the field of exact sciences, receiving prestigious awards such as the Israel Prize, the Albert Einstein Award, the Wigner Medal, and the EMET Prize for Arts, Sciences, and Culture. His career was marked by a dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation in Israel and beyond.

Sophia Getzowa was a Belarusian-born pathologist and scientist who made significant contributions to the field of medicine. Despite facing discrimination due to her identity as a Jew, a woman, and a foreigner, she persevered in her career. She conducted important research on the thyroid, including the identification of solid cell nests. Getzowa worked in various locations in Switzerland and Paris before being hired as a pathologist at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where she became the first female professor. She collaborated with prominent European scientists throughout her career until her retirement in 1940.

Avraham Naumovich Trahtman is a distinguished mathematician known for his groundbreaking work in combinatorics. He serves as a faculty member at Bar-Ilan University in Israel, where he has made significant contributions to the field. In 2007, Trahtman achieved international recognition for solving a long-standing problem in combinatorics, the Road Coloring Conjecture, which had remained unsolved for 37 years since it was first proposed in 1970. His profound expertise and innovative approach have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the mathematical community.

Amnon Freidberg was an Israeli entomologist known for his significant contributions to the field of entomology. Throughout his career, he described 257 new insect taxa, primarily focusing on flies. He studied biology at Tel Aviv University and conducted research on fruit flies, particularly their reproductive behavior and isolation. Freidberg served as the chief editor of the Israel Journal of Entomology for almost two decades and curated the entomological collection at Tel Aviv University until his retirement in 2013.

Cyril Domb was a prominent British-Israeli theoretical physicist recognized for his expertise in the theory of phase transitions and critical phenomena of fluids. His profound knowledge and teaching skills made him a notable figure in the scientific community. Domb's contributions extended beyond physics as he delved into exploring the intersection of science and Judaism, gaining recognition in Orthodox Jewish circles. His legacy is marked by significant advancements in the understanding of complex physical processes and his thought-provoking writings on the relationship between science and religion.

Michal Schwartz is a renowned professor of neuroimmunology at the Weizmann Institute of Science, specializing in neurodegenerative diseases. She focuses on leveraging the immune system to combat terminal brain diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia. Through her research, Schwartz has demonstrated the crucial role of the immune system in maintaining brain health, promoting healing, and protecting against injury and disease. She is credited with coining the term protective autoimmunity and uncovering the immune system's involvement in repair and neurogenesis. As the chair of the International Society of Neuroimmunology, Schwartz continues to lead groundbreaking work in the field, earning recognition such as the prestigious Israel Prize for Life Sciences in 2023.

Alex Biryukov is a prominent cryptographer and full professor at the University of Luxembourg. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to the field of cryptography, including the design of the LEX stream cipher and the development of various cryptanalysis techniques for cryptographic primitives. His collaborative work with other researchers has led to the creation of innovative attacks on widely used encryption algorithms such as AES. Biryukov is also a longstanding member of the International Association for Cryptologic Research, showcasing his dedication to the cryptographic community.