Dear students, postdocs, and PIs,
At the Weizmann School of Science, your well being and academic progress are our top priorities. As the recent week have brought personal, academic, and logistical challenges, please rest assured that we are fully committed to supporting each and every one of you whether you’re on campus, abroad, on reserve duty, or adjusting to new circumstances.
Below is a summary of the key updates and support measures currently in place:
1. End of Semester Plan
To accommodate students facing significant disruptions, such as those on IDF reserve duty, students with young children at home, and international students relocating, we’ve made the following adjustments:
• June 22–27, 2025: No classes (neither on-campus nor via hybrid)
• June 29–July 4: Classes resume, and summary lectures will be held via Zoom to conclude each course
• July 6–11: Physical Sciences courses, starting a week later, will conclude
• Details about the exam period will be shared soon.
These measures aim to offer a more flexible and supportive finish to the semester in the current circumstances.
2. Academic Rehabilitation Committee
We have established a special Academic Support Committee to assist students and postdocs whose research has been disrupted in an essential manner.
Chaired by Prof. Benny Geiger, the committee includes:
• Lena Bohrer, Head of the Academic Branch, WSoS
• Prof. Igor Ulitsky and Prof. Noam Stern Ginossar, Co Chairs of the Life Sciences Board of Studies
• Prof. Michal Leskes, Chair of the Chemical Sciences Board of Studies
• Prof. Yohai Kaspi, Chair of the Postdoctoral Training Program
The committee will help you find solutions and continue your academic path with clarity and support.
3. Rotation Policy Updates
We are adjusting rotation policies to ensure academic continuity due to the situation on campus:
• Life Sciences: All rotations are now concluded. PIs are encouraged to wrap up each rotation with their students. Students currently completing their third rotation will receive full academic credit.
• Chemical Sciences: Students may complete their third rotation once on-campus activities resume in coordination with the PI. Those with disrupted rotations will receive individualized support.
• Physical Sciences:
o Remote-eligible rotations can continue via Zoom.
o Experimental rotations may conclude now, and the students will receive full academic credit.
4. Looking Ahead: Academic Year 2025–2026
We are working diligently to ensure the 2025–2026 academic year begins on time and as scheduled, with efforts in place to maintain a stable, high-quality learning environment.
5. Reserve Duty Support
We deeply appreciate your service and will assist you with your academic path and personal hardship. Please note that a dedicated framework for students and postdocs serving in IDF reserve duty will be published next week.
Until then, please reach out to the WSoS Reserve Duty Coordinator with any questions or support needs.
6. International support
We are working on setting up an emergency fund to support challenges faced by our international students and postdocs.
7. Additional Resources – Wellbeing and Support
For your assistance we're also sharing two short informational booklets:
- Mental health & wellbeing tools, including links to support services
- Key contacts across the Weizmann Institute who are ready to assist with any concerns
Please download and save these resources. You’re not alone - we’re here for you!
With care and commitment,
Prof. Gilad Perez
Dean, Weizmann School of Science