Ten Israeli Researchers Win European ERC Proof of Concept Grants for Innovative Technologies
Ten Israeli scientists have been awarded the prestigious ERC Proof of Concept grants by the European Research Council, aimed at advancing research goals, fostering collaborations, and supporting early-stage technology commercialization. The recipients hail from leading Israeli institutions including Technion, Tel Aviv University, Weizmann Institute, and the Hebrew University.
At Technion, Prof. Moran Berkovich received funding to develop a compact device for rapid, automated production of customized multifocal eyeglass lenses, potentially revolutionizing the ophthalmic industry by replacing complex manufacturing with simpler, energy-efficient methods. Prof. Graham de Ruiter secured a grant for IRONMED, a project to replace rare palladium catalysts in drug production with sustainable iron-based alternatives, involving Technion’s commercialization unit and industrial partners.
Prof. Michael Kruger from Technion is developing an ultrafast electron microscopy platform for real-time semiconductor diagnostics to improve chip reliability and next-generation technology development. At Tel Aviv University, Prof. Lehi Adler-Abramovitch focuses on regenerative medicine solutions for jawbone loss, aiming to translate lab discoveries into clinical dental treatments. Prof. Adi Barzel, also at Tel Aviv University, received funding for in vivo T cell engineering to simplify and reduce costs of CAR-T therapies.
Prof. Yuval Nir at Tel Aviv University is advancing a non-invasive brain monitoring technology using infrared imaging and AI to continuously measure pupil size through closed eyelids, enhancing neurological care in intensive settings. At the Weizmann Institute, Prof. Yifat Merbl is developing immunotherapy drugs targeting cancer’s evasion of immune responses, while Prof. Shraga Schwartz is engineering RNA stabilization tools inspired by ancient microorganisms.
The Hebrew University’s Prof. Orly Lewis is creating an interactive digital platform to enhance accessibility and dissemination of complex humanities research. Prof. Nir Friedman is working on a blood-based diagnostic test for fatty liver disease (MASH), integrating AI to enable early detection and treatment for millions worldwide.
These grants will enable the researchers to move from fundamental discoveries to practical applications, potentially impacting healthcare, technology, and scientific communication globally.
