September News and Updates from AFORU

Dear Friends, Parents, and Alumni,

I’m currently in Israel attending the 25th Annual Counter-Terrorism Conference on the campus of Reichman University. Being here, I am deeply moved by the resilience and strength of the Israeli people, especially the students, staff, and faculty at Reichman, who continue to inspire with their unwavering commitment and spirit.

As we look ahead, we have many exciting events and initiatives taking place in the U.S. this fall. Please see the Save the Date for the RiseApp Launch Party in NYC on November 12th. We look forward to your continued engagement.

In the spirit of the season, I want to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones a Happy New Year.

Shana Tova—may this year bring peace, health, and renewal.

Thank you, as always, for your steadfast support.

Warm Regards,

Leslie

Leslie Skyba

Executive Director

American Friends of Reichman University, Inc

Read the full newsletter here.

Reichman University Hosts "Frontiers in Synthetic Biology and Bioconvergence” conference

Last week, Reichman University hosted the “Frontiers in Synthetic Biology and Bioconvergence” conference, initiated by the Scojen Institute for Synthetic Biology in collaboration with the Israeli Society for Synthetic Biology.

This year’s conference explored diverse aspects of synthetic biology and bioconvergence, highlighting the broad impact of these fields — from biological systems engineering for food and health, to bioinductive and sustainable materials, to groundbreaking medical developments.

The event brought together leading researchers and experts from Israel and around the

world, representing a variety of universities and research institutes.

Key topics discussed at the conference included:

- Bioconvergence and Biotechnology Across Scales

Presentations on embryonic models for biomedical research and cultured meat, the development of novel probiotic systems, and the integration of photosynthetic materials in construction.

- Keynote Lecture

A lecture delivered by Prof. Thomas K. Wood focused on the conversion of methane into sustainable energy sources such as acetate, lactate, hydrogen, and electricity.

- Panel Discussion

A high-level dialogue between academic and industrial leaders on the infrastructure required to advance the synthetic biology sector in Israel.

- Synthetic Biology Innovation for Medical Research 

Insights into the use of synthetic DNA libraries, engineered biomolecular condensates,

advanced peptide materials for therapeutic purposes, and applications of synthetic biology in cancer research.

- SynBio Pioneers

Cutting-edge research on artificial cell engineering, innovative environmental sensors, and advancements in computational biology.

- Frontiers in SynBio

A dedicated session spotlighting the younger generation of researchers in the field — postdocs and recent graduates — who presented innovative research in genetic systems engineering, cellular regulations, and bacterial defense mechanisms.

The conference reflected the growing strength and momentum of synthetic biology in Israel, the ever-expanding collaborations between academia and industry, and the field’s vital contribution to the future of science, medicine, and emerging industries.

Reichman University Mourns the Loss of Idan Shivti Z"L and Ariel Lubliner Z"L

On August 30th, it was announced that the body of Idan Shtivi, a Reichman University Sustainability and Government student, had been recovered. Idan was kidnapped and murdered during the brutal terror attack of October 7, 2023, and his body has been held by Hamas since. He was deeply committed to life, humanity, and nature. His family, classmates, and university administration fought tirelessly for his return home.

Reichman University also mourns the death of Sergeant First Class (Res.) Ariel Lubliner, a Raphael Recanati International School alumnus, who was killed in Gaza. He studied at the Lauder School of Government, Diplomacy, and Strategy. Ariel immigrated to Israel from Brazil about ten years ago, where he met his wife, Barbara. Together they have a nine-month-old baby.

The entire Reichman University community bows its head in the face of this unbearable loss. We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Lubliner and Shtivi families, their friends, and their loved ones.

May their memories forever be a blessing.