Building a home for the brain

The Weizmann  Institute of Science was thrilled to announce a lead philanthropic donation from the Azrieli.

Foundation to establish the Azrieli Institute for Brain and Neural Sciences—Weizmann’s neuroscience flagship project, which will catalyze transformative brain research. The magnanimous gift was announced at the opening ceremony of the 73rd Annual General Meeting of the International Board of the Weizmann Institute, in the presence of Isaac Herzog, President of the State of Israel, Danna Azrieli, Co-Chair of the Azrieli Foundation Israel, and Weizmann scientists, supporters, and International  Board members. Dr. Naomi Azrieli, Chair and CEO of the Azrieli Foundation, Stephanie Azrieli, Dr. Sharon Azrieli and Cathy Beck, Chair of the International Board of the Weizmann Institute, joined virtually from Montreal at a special event hosted by  Weizmann Canada.

The Azrieli Foundation is a longstanding champion of the Weizmann Institute, advancing a range of research related to biomedical and life sciences, including state-of-the- art technology.

The new Azrieli Institute will promote the  full  spectrum of neuroscience research—from basic, curiosity-driven studies to translational work of high clinical relevance—with global impact.

The donation will also enable  the construction of a modern building that will serve as a hub for neuroscience activities, facilities, and the latest technologies.

“The new Azrieli Institute for Brain and Neural Sciences embodies one of the Weizmann Institute’s fundamental values— interdisciplinary  collaboration,” said Weizmann Institute President, Prof. Alon Chen. “It will create a home for all the Weizmann researchers studying neuroscience, who will, under one roof, work together to gain a detailed understanding of how the brain develops and how it functions.”

“The Azrieli Foundation seeks to nurture networks of excellence and out-of-the-box  thinking,  and we are passionate about supporting the next generation of researchers,” said Dr. Naomi Azrieli.

Her sister Danna Azrieli added, “As builders, we open doors literally and metaphorically, so we are thrilled that the Azrieli Institute for Brain and Neural Sciences will enable these brilliant scientists to explore brain research.”

The Weizmann Institute of Science is profoundly grateful to the Azrieli Foundation for their tremendous commitment to advancing brain science and technology.