The Hebrew University of Jerusalem proudly congratulates Dr. Uria Alcolombri on being named one of the 19 National Champions of the 2025 Frontiers Planet Prize, the only Israeli scientist to receive this prestigious honor in this year’s global competition.

 

Award-Winning Research

Dr. Alcolombri, a researcher at the Institute of Life Sciences at the Hebrew University, was selected in the category of Climate Change Mitigation and Carbon Sequestration for his pioneering study, “Microbial dietary preference and interactions affect the export of lipids to the deep ocean,” published in Science in 2024.
 

The Frontiers Planet Prize is the world’s leading science award focused on planetary health. It identifies and supports breakthrough scientific research with the greatest potential to address the planet’s most urgent environmental challenges. This year, 19 scientists from five continents were recognized for their innovative work.

 

Marine Microbes and Carbon Sequestration

The study explores how microbial behavior influences the deep-ocean export of lipids, offering a new understanding of the biological processes behind carbon sequestration in the ocean. Dr. Alcolombri emphasizes the critical yet often overlooked role of marine bacteria in regulating Earth’s carbon cycle. His findings show that microbial communities exhibit distinct dietary preferences and complex interactions that determine whether carbon is stored in the deep sea or released back into the atmosphere.
 

Using advanced techniques such as nano-lipidomics, microfluidics, and lab-constructed microbial ecosystems, the research reveals how microbial metabolism shapes global carbon storage. These insights not only challenge conventional understandings of the ocean’s role in the carbon cycle but may also inform the design of safe, nature-based strategies for enhancing marine carbon sequestration—while underlining the importance of protecting oceanic ecosystems.

 

A Global Platform for Planetary Solutions

As a 2025 National Champion, Dr. Alcolombri will represent Israel in a global network of scientists and thought leaders working toward systemic solutions for planetary resilience. The Frontiers Planet Prize is supported by strategic partners including Future Earth, the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, the International Science Council, and the Villars Institute.
 

The award ceremony will take place on June 17, 2025, during the Villars Symposium in Villar-sur-Ollon, Switzerland, where Champions will present their research and collaborate on future solutions for a sustainable planet.
 

The Hebrew University takes great pride in Dr. Alcolombri's recognition and looks forward to celebrating his continued contributions.

 

For a century, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has been a beacon for visionary minds who challenge norms and shape the future. Founded by luminaries like Albert Einstein, who entrusted his intellectual legacy to the University, it is dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering leadership, and promoting diversity. Home to over 23,000 students from 90 countries, the Hebrew University drives much of Israel’s civilian scientific research, with over 11,000 patents and groundbreaking contributions recognized by nine Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards, and a Fields Medal. Ranked 81st globally by the Shanghai Ranking (2024), it celebrates a century of excellence in research, education, and innovation. To learn more about the University’s academic programs, research, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/en.