Science, sustainability, and connection

Weizmann Institute President Prof. Alon Chen, accompanied by marine microbiologist Dr. Einat Segev, visited Uruguay and Brazil in April to introduce the new Institute for Environmental Sustainability. In Montevideo, Punta del Este, and São Paulo, they presented the Weizmann Institute’s initiative as a firm commitment to using science to directly address urgent issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Hundreds of friends from the region attended inspiring talks that highlighted the threats facing a rapidly changing planet and the Institute’s tools to help address this global challenge.

In March, the Latin American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science celebrated the 40th anniversary of its Mexican Association of Friends. Prof. Chen, along with Latin American Committee CEO Dany Schmit, traveled from Israel to meet with the Mexican Friends who are an essential part of this achievement. The event recognized the contributions of the 12 outstanding presidents who have led the group—now under the leadership of Elías Harari—as well as the hundreds of volunteers whose sustained commitment has generated projects to support Weizmann science and its connection with the Mexican community.

“It is an honor to be in Mexico City with one of our oldest friends’ associations. I congratulate you on your leadership and the successes achieved over these years on behalf of the entire Institute and Israeli science,” Prof. Chen said.

The ties between the Weizmann Institute and Latin America were further strengthened through a student mission. Three PhD students—Jenny-Lee Mathias (sustainability), Sonu Kurien (neuroscience), and Carmel Sochen (immunology)—visited Argentina and Brazil in a maiden trip to the region for all three. Together, they presented their exciting research to different audiences, including high school and university students, leaders in innovation and biotechnology, entrepreneurs, and friends from the area.

In April, Prof. Chen visited Santiago, Chile, where he discussed the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on scientific research. The visit helped solidify a new group of Weizmann friends led by Ariela Agosin, a prominent community leader and the new president of Weizmann Chile.

“The dynamic and enriched relationship between the Weizmann Institute and the Latin American region creates bridges that connect us with inspiring people and common goals,” said Dany Schmit following the event.