Imagine studying one of the world’s most enduring and dynamic civilizations in the vibrant heart of the Middle East, where ancient culture meets cutting-edge scholarship.

A new graduate degree in Jewish Studies at Tel Aviv University offers exactly this opportunity through a partnership between Tel Aviv University, Goethe University Frankfurt, and the Koret Center for Jewish Civilization that’s redefining how we understand Jewish history, civilization and culture.

What Sets TAU’s Jewish Studies MA Apart?

“We are bringing a multidisciplinarian approach, combining Jewish history with biblical studies, Jewish literature and culture, and Jewish philosophy,” says Prof Youval Rotman, the program’s founder, speaking about the thinking that shaped its development.

It’s a comprehensive exploration that connects the dots across centuries of Jewish thought and experience.

This collaborative master’s program approaches the history and development of Jewish civilization as “a key phenomenon in world history that has significantly contributed to the development of neighboring civilizations through ongoing patterns of interaction and moments of reciprocal influence,” adds Prof Scott Ury, from the TAU’s Department of Jewish History and the Academic Head of the new program.

Hammat Tiberias synagogue, Helios and zodiac floor mosaic (Photo by Praisethelorne, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Rather than viewing Jewish society and culture in isolation, students will explore its global impact and interconnections with a range of different peoples and cultures.

The program includes courses developed specifically for this MA, presenting current research in Jewish Studies and History, including topics such as:

• The Dialogical Turn in Modern Jewish Philosophy, 
• Jews and Cities: Between Communal Histories and Urban Studies, 
• Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews in Cross-Cultural Settings: Past and Present, 
• Poetry and Theology in the Medieval Synagogue, 
• Jewish Magical Tradition, 
• Reading Tannaitic Midrash.

“We study traditional Jewish texts in historical context, from an academic and scientific point of view.”—Prof Youval Rotman

“We see them as part of the ongoing dynamic of Jewish culture that sustained and helped create a vibrant socio-cultural framework,” explains Prof. Scott Ury.

Study Across Borders, Online and On Campus

The program ensures a truly international academic experience through its partnership with Goethe University Frankfurt. Many of the courses are co-taught by Israeli and German faculty, and students will have the option to spend a semester in Germany. 

The study format is flexible: you can begin online in Spring 2026 and continue on campus in Tel Aviv in Fall 2026. You are required to spend at least one semester at Tel Aviv University, and you won’t want to miss the chance to experience campus life in Israel.

Prof. Youval Rotman

The curriculum spans five main areas: 

• Jewish Philosophy, 
• Biblical Studies, 
• Jewish History, 
• Hebrew Language and Semitic Linguistics,
• Jewish Literature and Culture. 

All courses are part of the graduate curriculum of both Tel Aviv University and Goethe University in Frankfurt. You will be able to complete your credits in about 1.5 to 2 years, through a mix of in-person and hybrid learning.

Applications are now open for this tri-institutional collaborative MA that’s reshaping Jewish Studies for the 21st century. 

Visit the Jewish Studies master’s program page to learn more.

Contact the program coordinator Debora Menahem for details of the application requirements and apply online for Fall 2025 or Spring 2026.

Why Is Jewish Civilization Particularly Relevant Today?

Think of Jewish Studies as studying one of the most original social networks in human history and one of the most antique world wide webs that spans continents and millenia. 

“Studying Jewish civilization will give students a strong background for understanding and contextualizing developments in Israeli society and Jewish communities today, whether you’re in San Francisco, Berlin or Shanghai.”—Prof Scott Ury

Jewish civilization also presents a particular kind of paradigm that’s incredibly useful in the study of dfferent societies and cultures.

The interior of the Central Synagogue on Lexington Avenue in New York (Photo by Walters-Storyk Design Group (WSDG), CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

“Studying Jewish civilization teaches us about our world today, especially about those communities that exist beyond the nation-state format, like minorities and diaspora communities in Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Far East,” adds Prof. Rotman.

TAU’s Jewish Studies curriculum addresses pressing contemporary topics including relations between Israel and the Jewish Diaspora, antisemitism and racism, religiosity and secularity, tradition and modernity, and various forms of connectivity, all through both historical and present-day lenses.

Recent global events have made these conversations more relevant than ever.

Where Will Your Career Take You After Graduation?

TAU’s Jewish Studies collaborative master’s degree is designed to prepare professionals across multiple sectors: “Program graduates can move on to academia, journalism, politics, civic society or non-governmental organizations, public history, educational programs, archives, museums, charitable and philanthropic bodies, and Jewish associations,” explains Prof. Rotman.

Prof Youval Rotman, the founder of the Jewish Studies international graduate program

“All of the courses taught in the program, although deeply steeped in the academic discourse, will have clear contemporary ramifications, certainly to students working and living in Tel Aviv,” adds Prof. Ury.

Who Will Be Teaching on the Program?

Quality matters, and this graduate degree program delivers exceptional scholarship. “All of the teachers in this program are full-time faculty, either at Goethe University in Frankfurt or Tel Aviv University, who’ve been teaching in Israel and other countries for many years and are leading scholars in their field,” says Prof. Ury.

And beyond their academic credentials, TAU faculty are genuinely approachable. They are known for being supportive, easy to talk to, and always up for a coffee chat.

The program features more than 15 faculty members from both universities, including renowned scholars like Prof. Dr Christian Wiese, Prof. Eshbal Ratzon, Prof. Maoz Kahana, Prof. Scott Ury, Prof. Dr Elizabeth Hollender, Prof. Rebekka Voss, Prof. Ishay Rozen-Zvi, Prof. Gideon Bohak, and Prof. Dalit Rom-Shiloni.

Can You Study Here Without Knowing Hebrew?

Absolutely. “All the courses are taught in English. All the faculty members are fluent in English. All the materials are available in English,” confirms Debora Menahem, the program coordinator. The program welcomes both Israeli and international students, Jewish and non-Jewish alike.

Walking the ancient streets

But you will be living in Tel Aviv, one of the world’s most dynamic cities, so you’ll probably want to study Hebrew at TAU to fully experience everything the city offers. Plus, once you do, you will be able to take whatever graduate courses you want from the School of Jewish Studies and Archaeology, expanding your academic horizons even further.

Finally, Why Tel Aviv University?

As Prof. Rotman sums it up, “Most importantly, the program is set within the city of Tel Aviv. So in all its aspects it’s very pluralistic and very varied.” 

In addition to having access to world-class library resources, including the Mehlman Library and the Sourasky Central Library, you will be able to join excursions to archaeological sites throughout Israel and cultural events and internships through the program’s partnership with the ANU Museum of the Jewish People located on TAU’s campus.

On Tel Aviv University campus

Importantly, the program is open both to Israeli and international students, giving you the chance to study, collaborate, and connect with classmates from across Israel and around the world. 

If you’re ready to study a civilization that has influenced world history and continues to renew itself, the Jewish Studies MA at Tel Aviv University offers the perfect setting. You’ll learn in one of the most dynamic cities in the world, with world-class faculty, international credentials, and career flexibility that traditional programs can’t match.

Applications are now open for this tri-institutional collaborative MA that’s reshaping Jewish Studies for the 21st century. 

Visit the Jewish Studies master’s program page to learn more.

Contact the program coordinator for details of the application process and apply online for Fall 2025 or Spring 2026.

“Even in absurd moments, life here refuses to stay on the surface,” said MC Orit Coty, Marketing Director of the Lowy International School, opening the ceremony with a smile. “It pushes us to go deeper. And you’ve all embraced that challenge.”

What This Year Taught Us

If there’s one thing the Class of 2025 learned beyond their coursework, it’s how to adapt, show up, and support one another in uncertain times.

Graduates of the Neuroscience MSc with Prof. Dinorah Friedmann-Morvinski, Academic Head of the program (on the left), and Orly Segev, Program Coordinator (second from the left). Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

For some, the academic year began just as the war broke out. Rivka Ohayon, a Neuroscience MSc graduate from Canada who made aliyah just four days before October 7, reflected on what it meant to persevere:

“It’s been intense, but my cohort has been amazing. The program gave me a lot of experience and helped me see what the neuroscience field is like in Israel.”—Rivka Ohayon, Neuroscience MSc

Others reflected on the shift in pace over the year. Neha Nidhi, from India, a graduate of the Sofaer Global MBA, described the contrast between semesters:

“The first semester was so hectic, and then the second was really light and relaxed because we were doing internships. This gave me real work experience in Israel.”—Neha Nidhi, Sofaer Global MBA

Neha Nidhi (in the center) with her classmates. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

In a year marked by disruption, students leaned into learning from professors and one another. They stayed for the conversations, the camaraderie, and the sense of purpose that carried them through.

From Digs to Diplomacy: A Year of Learning in Action

Academic life at TAU is never limited to the classroom alone. Across programs, students gained hands-on experience that brought theory to life, whether by attending Tel Aviv’s CyberTech Expo in the Cyber Politics & Government MA, participating in Earth Day events through the Social and Policy Aspects of Climate Change MA, or developing clean water access projects in the Sustainable Development program.

Others explored sustainable agriculture in Environmental Studies or led classroom instruction in TESOL as part of their teaching practicum.

Prof. Elana Shohamy, Academic Chair of the International MA TESOL program, congratulating Yulia Ioffe who has finished the first year of the recently introduced academic integration track for new olim. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

And for MA in Archaeology and Near Eastern Cultures graduate Mara Cara Melodias from the Philippines, that hands-on learning meant literally rolling up her sleeves at the summer excavation course:

“We wake up at 4 am to dig by 5, work until midday, then have classes until dinner. But honestly, it’s been great. The professors are excellent, and the community is so supportive. I even brought my toddler to the excavation site. She loves it!”—Mara Cara Melodias, MA in Archaeology and Near Eastern Cultures

Meanwhile, MBA students in the Sofaer Global MBA pitched startups, interned with Israeli companies, and some even launched an award-winning AI music venture. “I didn’t come to Israel to build a startup,” said Liu Liu, a member of the team that won a $10,000 award at the Sofaer Pitch Competition. “But here we are now.”

Prof. Jackie Goren (left), Head of the Sofaer Global MBA, with program graduate Liu Liu. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

Conflict Resolution and Security & Diplomacy students discussed theory one day and watched it play out in real life the next. “It was life-changing,” said Micaela Pelenur, an MA in Conflict Resolution and Mediation graduate from Argentina, who is now planning to go into humanitarian aid and strategic communications. 

“Being in Israel during a time of war and learning about conflict, it all just integrated perfectly.”—Micaela Pelenur, Conflict Resolution and Mediation MA

Undergraduates in the BA in Management & Liberal Arts wrapped up their final year as the program’s first graduating cohort.

“What’s unique about this degree is how it lets you mix the arts and the business side. It gives you a broad background to go into the world with real perspective.”—Tyla Shur

Moments That Made a Community

And beyond the books, student life was active as ever. There were trips across the country, from the north to the south. Students gathered at the Lowy International School’s Green House for holiday celebrations, paint nights, pizza nights, and community support events. There were career workshops, volunteering outings, and language and dance club meetups. Along the way, they built a community that will stay with them long after graduation.

End of year ceremony 2025. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

Throughout the year, JLIC offered another layer of connection, organizing Shabbat dinners, learning circles, and events like the Healing the Rifts conference that brought students together around shared values and reflection. 

A Ceremony to Remember

As each program was announced, the graduates of the Class of 2025 made their way into the auditorium, representing disciplines as diverse as neuroscience, diplomacy, disaster management, and archaeology. The moment was electric, filled with applause, cameras, and proud smiles.

MDM graduating entereing the auditorium. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

Among the audience was Lisa Impey, from Germany, who has decided to continue with the thesis track in the Master’s in Disaster Management alongside an internship.

“It’s amazing to be here. The course, the university, and Israel itself is great.”—Lisa Impey, MDM

MC Orit Coty welcomed the audience with warmth and humor, reminding graduates that they now officially belonged to the local tribe, complete with the right to argue with taxi drivers and never wait quietly in line again.

The evening included a soulful performance by the Dawn Ensemble, opening remarks by TAU VP International Professor Milette Shamir, and a stirring speech by valedictorian Samuel Greenberg, who shared words of wisdom from his grandfathers:

Samuel Greenberg delivers the Valedictorian address to the Class of 2025. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi 

“One told me to make mistakes. The other said his greatest regret was doing nothing. I took both lessons to heart. Doing something, anything, is better than letting life pass you by.”— Samuel Greenberg, Security & Diplomacy MA

Keynote speaker Professor Merav Roth, a psychoanalyst and expert on trauma, invited graduates to find strength through challenge:

“Every crisis is a door. You just have to be brave enough to open it.”

Professor Merav Roth at the 2025 End of Year ceremony. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

With Hatikvah echoing and caps in the air, the ceremony wrapped up, opening the door to new beginnings.

What Comes Next

For many, plans are already in motion. Shaina Leykin, from the Sofaer Global MBA, summed it up:

“Now it’s career mode. I’m finishing my fellowship, then looking for a job. But first, maybe a short vacation.”—Shaina Leykin, Sofaer Global MBA

Mara Cara Melodias hopes to continue to a PhD after completing her master’s thesis. Rivka Ohayon, who explored sleep and physical performance in defense training, is now eyeing the health tech industry: “I’d love to work with cognitive testing or sleep tech. It’s where neuroscience meets real-world impact.” And for Neha Nidhi, the next destination is Paris, where she is going to spend her exchange semester.

Conflict Resolution MA graduates with Dr. Nimrod Rosler, Academic Head of Program, and Program Director Corey Gil-Shuster. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

This year also saw a graduate give back. Alexandra Seaman, a Conflict Resolution alumna, launched a scholarship fund for future women leaders in peacebuilding:

“Understanding human nature and the mechanisms of conflict is more crucial than ever. I want others to access what I had the privilege to learn.”—Alexandra Seaman, Conflict Resolution MA

Be the Ambassadors of TAU

“There’s a big world out there waiting for you to make a difference,” said MC Orit Coty in her closing message. “And today is just the beginning.”

A joyful finale. Photo credit: Shlomi Mizrahi

To the Class of 2025, thank you for your courage, your curiosity, and your commitment. You’ve left a mark on Tel Aviv University. Now it’s your turn to leave one on the world.

Ready to be part of the next chapter? Find the program that fits your goals, apply now, and help shape the Class of 2026.

Beyond the prize, there’s a deeper story: the story of how an MBA in Tel Aviv brought together a classical pianist, a fashion marketer, and a seasoned entrepreneur to build something they never expected.

Join the Sofaer Global MBA infosession on July 27 at 5 pm

No Business Background? No Problem

“I came to Israel for personal reasons. I left my job, brought my dog, and promised my family I’d finish my degree,” says Liu Liu, who previously worked in Shanghai’s fashion and trade show scene. 

“I didn’t come to Israel to build a startup. I just wanted to enjoy life for a while.”—Liu Liu

Her expectations shifted fast. The Sofaer MBA’s hands-on approach pushed Liu to explore ideas beyond her comfort zone. “I’d done a startup before in street dance. But this was different. We had to pitch, research markets, and work in teams. I was so confused at first. My English wasn’t strong. I have hearing difficulties. And everyone around me looked so… professional.”

Then came Ohad.

Ohad Gev presenting LalaScript’s pitch

“He didn’t seem like a typical business student either,” she laughs. “We clicked right away.” A classical pianist from New York who had arrived several weeks late to the program, he was equally uncomfortable with the business school environment.

“I remember when I got to the program, it was my first non-music school. What am I doing? There’s a lot of collaborating. There’s a lot of presenting. I hate presenting,” Gev recalls.

Nine months later, this unlikely duo along with their teammate Ilya Kolin would win the $10,000 Arlette Sofaer Prize for LalaScript, an AI-powered platform that transforms any audio into tailored, playable sheet music.

Homework That Turned Into a Startup

LalaScript was born in Dr. Leslie Broudo-Mitts’s New Venture Creation class, where homework assignments included building actual startups. Choosing the concept to develop was not easy.

“It was really funny how it started when Liu Liu couldn’t do the idea she wanted,” Gev recalls. But once she looked through his list, one idea jumped out: the music transcription concept that eventually became LalaScript.

Ohad Gev, Liu Liu, and Ilya Kolin: The winning team

Their initial market research revealed surprising opportunities. “We found that our product pitch is very unique in terms of the solution we’re offering,” says Gev. “But there’s a lot of existing music creation apps, which we consider competition.”

“We’re Really Building Something Human.”

The human aspect is what got Liu Liu really excited about the idea. “Everyone back home talked about finance, AI, robotics, medicine. I didn’t care about that,” she says. “I just wanted to build something for real people. And that’s what this is.”

“Our project isn’t just about music. It’s about making creativity more accessible. You hear a song, you want to play it, so LalaScript helps you do that, even if you’re not a pro.”—Liu Liu

What began as a class project turned into something much more after the team won the startup competition. “Suddenly, professors took us seriously. They told us, ‘Now you have something real. Let’s go.’ And that changed how I saw myself too,” says Liu.

Since then, the team has been meeting with investors, planning next steps, and even getting scouted by The Sharks of Israel (Israel’s version of Shark Tank).

“We didn’t expect any of this,” Liu says. “But here we are now.”

From Missed Deadlines to Center Stage

The path to victory at the Sofaer Startup Competition was nearly derailed by the team almost missing the first deadline. But when the deadline was extended, they had no more excuses. 

The jury of the 3rd Sofaer Pitch Competition included Nimrod Cohen (on the right), the Managing Partner of TAU Ventures; Lisya Bahar Manoah (second from the right), Managing Partner at Arieli Group; Fiona Darmon, Founder & Managing Partner at Sunset Ventures, and Oren Kaplan, Fintech entrepreneur, investor, mentor

Their professors recognized the team’s potential and provided crucial support in preparing the pitch. There was also Gev’s anxiety about public speaking to contend with: “I’m not a public speaker. I like to perform when I’m behind the piano,” he says.

So, the competition itself was a transformative experience. Team members trained to speak loudly and clearly, citing numbers to make their pitch more impactful. And the hard work paid off.

“The jury saw how serious we were about the pitch competition. And they believed in us.”—Liu Liu

“We’re So Different, and That’s What Works.”

Reflecting on their team, Liu Liu says it best: “Ohad’s a pianist. I’m from fashion. Ilya’s data-driven. We don’t think the same, we don’t even speak the same first language, but we trust each other. That’s what the program gave us.”

The Sofaer Global MBA is truly a bridge between worlds, and a launchpad for innovation, creativity, and surprising transformations.

Sofaer Global MBA Class of 2025

As Liu Liu puts it, “I didn’t come here to be a founder. But that’s exactly what happened.”

“It’s such a unique space. You’re thrown into a startup ecosystem that’s fast, scrappy, supportive. And you’re learning with people from everywhere, Europe, Asia, North America, South America. You learn just as much from each other as from the professors.”—Ohad Gev

Investor calls, pitch competitions, maybe even prime time, LalaScript is heading places. But for its founders, the real turning point was the Sofaer MBA: a fast-paced mix of challenging coursework, practical startup experience, and faculty who had their back from day one.

Ready to make your next move in Tel Aviv’s startup scene? 

Join the program infosession on July 27 at 5 pm to learn more about the Sofaer Global MBA.

Applications are now open, and you can apply online.

World-Class Education Recognized in the US and Beyond

A degree from TAU is not just globally recognized—it’s also a respected credential for students planning to pursue graduate studies or a career in the US. Many of our alumni have gone on to top graduate programs in the US and around the world, and we count among our academic partners universities like Columbia and Northwestern.

“At TAU, you have the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful and still get the education that you’re looking for—with all of the aspects of the American-style education of having so many classes to choose from and a great community.”—Kayla Goldberger, BA in Management and Liberal Arts

TAU alumni are also thriving at Google, Meta, Alphabet and other industry leaders. This university isn’t just a stepping-stone; it’s a launchpad for a truly international career. 

“Tel Aviv University is very well recognized. I’m glad to have this degree behind me.”—Tyla Shur, BA in Management and Liberal Arts

Affordable Education and Federal Aid Options

One of the most attractive aspects of studying at TAU is the significantly lower tuition. Compared to US-based universities, TAU’s tuition offers savings without sacrificing quality.

Plus, in addition to the many scholarships you can apply for, students from the US can use their 529 college savings plans, federal loans or even Veterans’ benefits to pay tuition at TAU, making it even easier to fund an international education. 

Shorter Program Duration = Faster Career Launch

Why wait four years when you can complete a bachelor’s degree in three? TAU’s accelerated program structure allows you to complete your undergraduate studies in less time than most US universities, while at the same time being fully equivalent (i.e., a three-year program at TAU = a four-year program in the US).

The graduation ceremony of the Liberal Arts BA program

And if you’re ambitious, TAU offers options to transition directly into a graduate program, meaning you could potentially complete both degrees in only four years. 

Real-World Experience in a Thriving Tech Hub

Israel is known for its tech innovation, and Tel Aviv is at the center of this exciting scene. TAU’s unique position in one of the world’s leading tech hubs opens doors to internships and networking opportunities.

“I was equipped through various university courses to be able to build my connections, improve my LinkedIn profile, and find internships.”—Kayla Goldberger, BA in Management and Liberal Arts

The university’s close ties with industry leaders mean that students benefit from a smaller, more intimate academic ecosystem while still gaining access to world-class opportunities. With direct pathways to internships and a strong presence in the tech and business sectors, studying at TAU gives you a competitive edge in the global job market.

A Vibrant, Coastal Place to Discover

Nestled along the beautiful Mediterranean coast, Tel Aviv offers a unique blend of rich history and lively and inclusive cultures (New York Times called us the “capital of Mediterranean Cool”). No matter your interests and background, there’s a place here for you.

TAU students enjoying a day at the beach not far from the TAU campus

At TAU, moreover, you’ll quickly find a community of like-minded people, world-class facilities (like our Olympic-sized swimming pool and spa amenities) as well as a team of community leaders dedicated to supporting you during your time with us.

Unique Program Flexibility and Admission Pathways

At TAU, you’re not limited to a single program when applying. The university allows students to apply to multiple programs simultaneously, including our dual degree programs with Columbia University or Yeshiva University and our International BA in Liberal Arts or International BA in Management and Liberal Arts. 

Our dual degree programs also mean you spend half your time in Israel and half your time in the US, resulting in a diverse academic background with global experiences. 

“The dual degree program is a perfect combination—starting at Tel Aviv University and continuing at Columbia gives an excellent international academic experience. I learn so much from other students in the classroom.”—Chloe Katz, Dual Degree with Columbia University

Need a little extra time before diving into your studies? TAU also offers a one-year deferral option for accepted students, giving you the flexibility to plan your educational journey.

Curious About TAU? 

TAU offers more than just an undergraduate degree—it’s an experience that combines global recognition, affordability and unrivaled opportunities in a vibrant, high-tech city. Plus, by doing an international degree in English at TAU through The Lowy International School, you’ll find a community of global, like-minded people here to support you and cheer you on, every step of the way.

“When I decided to go to college in Israel I definitely expected it to be at a different level than what an American University experience would be like both academically and just socially but I’ve been so pleasantly surprised from my first day arriving on campus—it’s just blown away my expectations of what an Israeli college experience could be like.”—Joe Block, Dual Degree BA with Columbia

Explore program websites for more information and send your application online.

The Alexandra Ruth Seaman Scholarship Fund will provide financial assistance to up to 3 deserving female students who demonstrate academic promise and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities specifically through the arts, culture and women’s empowerment. 

“I believe deeply in the power of education, and the knowledge I gained through the program is truly priceless,” says Seaman. 

“I want more people to access what I had the privilege to learn. Understanding human nature and the mechanisms of conflict is more crucial than ever—not just for Israel, but for the world at large.”

With an initial contribution of US$25,000 a year for five years, the scholarship will support female students of all backgrounds who seek to become changemakers in their societies. 

“I also believe strongly in female empowerment,” she adds.

“I want to see more young women stepping into their unique roles and realizing their full potential.”

The scholarship selection will be coordinated in partnership with the program’s Admission Committee, and the first awards will be granted for the 2025/2026 academic year.

Alexandra Seaman (fourth from left) with Dr. Nimrod Rosler (fifth from left) and classmates in a Conflict Resolution class

Dr Nimrod Rosler, head of the MA in Conflict Resolution and Mediation, welcomed the announcement of the scholarship, thanking Alexandra Seaman for this important and meaningful contribution to future leaders globally striving for peace:

“This scholarship will open doors for students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams. It is an investment not only in education, but in the future leaders globally.”—Dr. Nimrod Rosler.

Seaman’s own path to Tel Aviv University was unexpected, but rewarding: “A year ago I had been accepted into the MA in Global Studies at Berkeley, but I wasn’t able to get my student visa in time. I came to Israel to make Aliyah and began looking for a similar academic program so I wouldn’t lose a year that I have been allocated for studies already.” 

“I was immediately drawn to TAU’s Conflict Resolution and Mediation program, and, luckily, admissions were still open. It turned out to be one of the most meaningful decisions I’ve made.”

Seaman recalls that when she originally discovered the MA in Conflict Resolution, she spoke with her professional coach about it and was pleasantly surprised to learn that the program is considered one of the strongest in the field.

Conflict Resolution & Mediation students on one of the field trips that are included on the curriculum

Alexandra praises the program for its academic excellence and community spirit: “Our program truly felt like a family—I felt supported at every step. It went far beyond the professional excellence of Nimrod Rosler and his team, there was a profound sense of community deeply embedded in TAU’s DNA. That feeling of care and belonging became especially meaningful in the aftermath of October 7th.”

“One of the highlights of my experience is that my high expectations were not only met, but exceeded. I gained essential knowledge that enabled me to open a new chapter in my professional life.”

A lifelong humanitarian, Alexandra began her career as a television host before becoming a multidisciplinary media producer, leading social impact projects that address some of the world’s most urgent challenges, from environmental justice and climate change to human and animal rights. Her work reflects a broader vision for Israel and the region:

“My dream is to make Israel a blueprint for peaceful coexistence. I work toward that vision through my NGO, lov.foundation. Without the MA in Conflict Resolution & Mediation, I would never have fully understood what we need to do to help turn that dream into reality.” 

Alexandra Seaman, the founder of the Alexandra Ruth Seaman Scholarship Fund

Her passion for strengthening Israel’s educational ecosystem is equally clear. “I want Israel to have a strong educational system, with institutions so inspiring that the world looks to them as models,” she says.

“During my time on TAU’s campus, I noticed that nearly every building, garden, and corner bore the name of someone who shared that vision for Israel. But vision alone is not enough—you have to act on it. This scholarship is my small but meaningful step toward that future.”

Seaman holds a BA in Art History from Moscow State University and an MA in Conflict Resolution and Mediation from Tel Aviv University, with further studies at Christie’s Education. Her current focus lies in exploring how art and culture can serve as powerful tools for peacebuilding and global connection.

The Alexandra Ruth Seaman Scholarship Fund reflects her belief in action-driven leadership, inclusive education, and the transformative power of women-led change. It also aligns with the program’s ongoing mission to ensure that every student has the resources they need to understand and solve global conflicts. 

“We are part of a powerful and inspiring global community,” says Seaman about TAU alumni community. “I encourage each of us to be more proactive, to connect, and to join forces in strengthening Israel by supporting TAU and its mission. Together, we can make a real impact.”

For more information about the scholarship or how to apply, please visit the website. 

Applications for the Conflict Resolution and Mediation MA are now open. Learn more about the program and apply online.

A Team Built Across Disciplines

Led by Shir Shance and Idan Eyni, third-year undergraduate students in biotechnology and in biomedical engineering respectively, the TAU iGEM team brings together campus collaboration across disciplines like medical sciences, computer science, mathematics, biotechnology and biomedical engineering. 

“Synthetic biology is a combination of molecular biology and sophisticated engineering tools,” explains Eyni.

“So iGEM is really all about interdisciplinary teams and bringing all these different strengths together.”—Idan Eyni, biomedical engineering undergraduate

The TAU IGEM program was founded by Prof. Tamir Tuller from the engineering faculty (an expert in computational and synthetic biology), who is the lead supervisor of the program. The team is also supported by a scientific steering committee that includes Profs. Avigdor Eldar, Uri Gophna, Martin Kupiec and Itai Benhar.

Members of TAU’s iGEM team join Startup Nation Central for mentorship on entrepreneurship.

In addition, it is supported by an entrepreneurship committee that includes Yair Sakov (founder and managing director of TAU’s Entrepreneurship Center) and the team at Startup Nation Central. 

A New Approach to Cancer

Oncoligo targets a fundamental weakness in cancer cells: their faulty mRNA. Rather than trying to destroy cancer cells via their mutated – proteins, as many current therapies do, the team is working to target cancer cells via the mutations in the mRNA molecules. The key lies in molecules known as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), which can bind to mutated RNA and deactivate it.

“Think of DNA as a recipe book, RNA as like a single recipe out of this book … and the protein is the final dish.”—Shir Shance, biotechnology undergraduate

“In cancer cells, the DNA has mutations, meaning the recipe is often damaged, leading to defective proteins … and so we’re thinking about how to kill cells with errors in the recipe so the damaged, cancerous proteins can’t exist anymore,” explains Shance.

Oncoligo members in the lab (from left to right): Roni Zarakhovsky, Oren Haviv, Shir Shance and Gal Aziel.

By designing novel ASOs that specifically bind to cancerous mRNA, the team hopes to offer a therapy that selectively targets tumor cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. This approach diverts from most current therapies, which target the cancer cells via chemotherapy and other nonspecific methods. 

Powered by Modeling, Guided by Experimentation

One aspect that makes the project especially innovative is the use of computational modeling to design the most effective ASO sequences. 

Michael Kovaliov, a master’s student in applied mathematics, leads the modeling team. “RNA can be difficult to distinguish and so we want to build a computational model that knows how to target certain areas” he explains.

“So, we’re first coming up with the computational model … then running some sequences in vitro in an actual cell line to test how effective it is. Once we get our results, we plug them back into the computer, we analyze them, and we try to make the model better once again.”—Michael Kovaliov, graduate student in applied maths

The team is currently testing their ASOs in model organisms like yeast and in human cell lines, with plans to eventually move into human cancer cell lines in the months ahead. If successful, their approach could offer a template for developing RNA-targeting therapies across a range of cancers.

Building Community, Locally and Globally

In parallel, the team has helped organize ISRA-GEM, a local version of the iGEM competition that took place in June and invited Israeli high school and university students from across the country to submit their own synthetic biology projects. This year, the competition saw over 250 participants from both central and peripheral regions of Israel.

TAU’s iGEM team members award winners of the 2025 ISRA-GEM competition.

The team is also holding an international online meetup on August 28, connecting iGEM teams from more than 17 countries—including Egypt, France, India, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Zimbabwe and Ghana. “The idea is to share ideas and collaborate and also practice for the iGEM grand final in Paris,” says Shance. 

Looking Ahead to Paris—and Beyond

With the main iGEM competition approaching, TAU’s iGEM team is focused on preparing a proof of concept and finalizing a research tool they’ve built to help others design ASOs for different diseases. While the team is hoping to once more bring home gold (TAU won a gold medal at last year’s competition), they’re also just excited for what the opportunity will bring.

“It’s a great experience for us to present our project and to reach other researchers from all over the world to learn from them.”—Idan Eyni. 

The TAU team additionally hopes that the iGEM competition marks the beginning of a lasting contribution to cancer research, one that can be continued in the form of a startup: “iGEM is designed to prepare you for the industry,” says Kovaliov. “Good science needs to come in conjunction with a coherent business plan; if this project matures enough, we would love to open a company.” 

Learn more about TAU’s 2025 iGEM team and the Oncoligo project.