The Boris Mints Institute is proud to state that Prof. Sened, head of BMI and Dean of the Social Sciences Faculty has received a certificate of appreciation from the Eilat-Eilot Center for Renewable Energy for his input into the collaboration and long-standing support of the activities. The Institute has supported the Eilat-Eilot Center for the past 8 years and has seen incredible growth of the initiative. We appreciate our partnership with the Center and are proud to see  achievements and development that were accomplished by both Eilat-Eilot and the collaboration with BMI.

Dr. Yaela Golumbic is a prominent researcher in science communication and citizen science at Tel Aviv University’s Steinhardt Museum of Natural History. Her work centers on engaging the public in science, fostering dialogue between scientists and the public, and making science accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. Dr. Golumbic, who holds degrees in Biology and a Ph.D. in Education and Science Communication, has led various citizen science projects, examining their benefits and challenges for science and society.

Amidst unprecedented scientific and technological progress and challenges like misinformation and unequal access to science, Dr. Golumbic’s research plays a vital role. She explores innovative ways of public participation in science, addressing the complexities of science-public interactions. Her extensive experience includes projects like air quality monitoring in Israel, radon concentration measurement, and global accessibility of essential medicines. Part of her work at the Israeli Center for Citizen Science focuses on biodiversity and invasive species, crucial for ecological system health and sustainable management. Her citizen science projects emphasize data collection over wide areas, raising awareness of nature conservation, and monitoring sustainable ecological management practices

The research focuses on the impacts of climate disruptions on the supply chains of critical foods and national security, with a specific case study examining the interdependence between Israel and Gaza. In recent years, global supply chains have faced numerous challenges, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic and the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war. Climate change acts as a “risk multiplier,” exacerbating existing crises and generating new challenges. The combination of crises alongside climatic challenges could lead to a “perfect storm,” resulting in instability and national security threats.

This impact is particularly significant in regions like Israel and the Gaza Strip, which rely heavily on long and complex supply chains. These areas are especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change and face additional significant challenges to their national resilience. The research aims to understand and address these vulnerabilities, exploring how climate change influences supply chain disruptions and the consequent effects on national security. It seeks to propose strategies for mitigating risks and enhancing resilience, especially in geopolitically sensitive regions like Israel and Gaza, where supply chain disruptions can have far-reaching implications. Eden will take part in the Geopolitical Cooperation Lab.

The EWB delegation, supported by BMI, is back from Tanzania following a successful trip in April 2023.The delegation focused on various projects, including a new collaboration between Israel, the United States, Germany, and Tanzania for drinking water. The team built a scalable water filtration system using ceramic filters connected in parallel, which was installed in Sabilo Primary School. In partnership with the non-profit organization Wine to Water, the team provided WASH education to the community. The project also involved collaborating with VETA, Babati, and German experts who used the opportunity to teach students welding and building skills. The project has given 1,000 children and staff access to clean water year-round.