Breakthroughs that define tomorrow
Tel Aviv University is leading the way on many fronts.
NESTLED in the bustling heart of Israel, Tel Aviv University (TAU) has over the years transformed from being an institution of higher education into a global powerhouse of research, innovation and societal impact. With a reputation that now extends far beyond Israel’s shores, TAU is shaping the future, one breakthrough at a time.
From establishing the world’s first mRNA vaccine against deadly bacteria to launching the maiden satellite observatory for quantum optical communication, TAU is changing the way we see the world.
TAU’s students, faculty and researchers are leaders on the path to discovery in health, science, security, the arts, law, the environment, engineering and much more. This is achieved with a multi-disciplinary approach that applies a broad perspective and range of resources to kick-start invention and advancement across fields.
The city of Tel Aviv is a hub of innovation, creativity and excitement and TAU exemplifies all of these traits. The university actively embraces a culture and student body that are inquisitive and responsive to pressing issues and worldwide problems.
Here are just a few of the incredible breakthroughs that have been developed within TAU in the past 12 months:
A paradigm shift in medicine, technology and sustainability
Notably, the “Super Seaweed” innovation promises a future in which health compounds and medicines can be derived directly from the sea, embracing a sustainable integrated aquaculture approach.
The blue-green revolution is a significant focus of TAU – aiming to conserve marine ecosystems and ensuring food security – addressing two pivotal global challenges.
Projects like these exemplify TAU’s philosophy of merging research with societal impact.
Game-changer for cancer treatment
Surgery, with its associated risks and recovery periods, might soon become history for tumour removal. Researchers have now combined the power of ultrasound and nanobubbles, leading to a non-invasive method of obliterating cancerous tumours.
Severe bone loss no longer a dead end
There is a new hope for patients with significant bone loss. Groundbreaking research has brought about a hydrogel that mirrors the bone’s natural environment, stimulating bone regeneration. This global innovation spells relief for countless patients worldwide.
Peering into the cosmic past
The universe holds its secrets close, but not close enough for TAU’s international team of astronomers. They have successfully characterised some of the universe’s earliest galaxies, a mere 200 million years post the Big Bang, setting a new standard in astrophysics.
Pain perception in autism
Contrary to the prevailing belief, a recent study from the university reveals that individuals with autism perceive pain at heightened intensities, urging a revisit of current therapeutic strategies.
A giant leap in virology
Our understanding of the microscopic world just underwent a massive shift. TAU researchers identified a staggering 100,000 previously unknown RNA viruses, catapulting our knowledge by a factor of nine.
Ground-breaking satellite communication
In the field of space tech, TAU launched Israel’s first nanosatellite designed for communication with an optical ground station. This promises a leap in quantum communication.
The sky isn’t the limit
With the proposed system of nanosatellites for hyperspectral imaging, TAU addresses the challenge of small payload limits. Their revolutionary method ensures high-resolution earth monitoring across several spectral bands. This holds immense potential for various sectors from environmental monitoring to defence.
Holocaust education: an expanding frontier
The Centre for the Study of Contemporary European Jewry revealed positive strides in Holocaust education, witnessing its proliferation in regions like Africa, Eastern Europe and the Arab world.
Sounds of nature
In a revelation that can change the way we understand flora, TAU researchers have discovered that plants emit ultrasonic sounds, primarily under stress. These sounds, beyond human hearing capabilities, offer valuable insights into a plant’s condition.
Recognitions and Rankings
Recognition received this year reflects TAU’s global stature.
• #1 university in Israel in the 2024 QS World University Ranking.
• #7 in the world and #1 outside the US in the prestigious PitchBook ranking for 2023. This is the second year in a row.
• The Coller School of Management’s accolade as one of the top 100 business schools by CEOWORLD magazine.
• #1 outside the USA in the number of unicorns established by its alumni – ranked higher than Oxford University.
Nano marvels and hyperbaric healing
Other research spans from developing a minuscule hybrid micro-robot capable of capturing targeted damaged cells to a breakthrough in producing highly efficient, low-cost “green” hydrogen.
Additional developments to a computational genetic model now makes it possible to predict increased risk for breast cancer, and a novel approach against cancer that compels cells to self-destruct using a self-produced bacterial toxin.
TAU isn’t stopping and the university’s commitment to the betterment of humanity is unwavering.
Tel Aviv University is proving that regional challenges can be transformed into global opportunities and as we venture further into the 21st century, one thing is clear: Tel Aviv University is a beacon of hope, knowledge, progress and its influence is poised to grow even further as an incubator for the future.
For more information, go to english.tau.ac.il or to learn more about Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University, visit aftau.asn.au
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