New lab in optogenetics

Members of the Schwartz and Gersen families of France gathered on Dec. 28 to dedicate the lab of Dr. Ofer Yizhar of the Department of Neurobiology which they have named with a generous gift. The Laboratory in Memory of Paul and Lucie Schwartz Georges and Vera Gersen will advance research on optogenetics, a new method of light-based activation or suppression of neurons in the brain to explore a range of neurological dieases and disorders. “This is a very important day because it is a great opportunity to create a lasting memory for our family members on the Weizmann Institute campus while at the same time advance an important area of science,” said Prof. Jean Charles Schwartz.

“I am grateful for this honor of allowing my lab to carry your family name and I look forward to the many years ahead of research that will be conducted here,” said Dr. Yizhar.