The Hebrew University of Jerusalem proudly congratulates three of its esteemed researchers for receiving the prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Proof of Concept grants. These follow-up grants, each valued at €150,000, support researchers in advancing their groundbreaking work into practical applications. This recognition continues a proud tradition of excellence at the Hebrew University, with numerous scholars having earned ERC grants in previous years.
The recipients from Hebrew University are:
Prof. Elad Gross, Head of the Surface Chemistry Laboratory and Chair of the Department of Chemistry, for his development of an innovative anti-corrosion coating for iron and steel:
Corrosion on iron and steel poses a major technological challenge, weakening materials and reducing their functionality. Prof. Gross’s lab has developed a groundbreaking molecular coating that prevents rust formation. This ultra-thin, environmentally friendly, dual-layer coating has demonstrated exceptional efficacy in laboratory tests. The project aims to refine this technology, address technical barriers, and create a cost-efficient solution that could significantly extend the lifespan of iron and steel in industries such as transportation, aerospace, shipping, energy, and infrastructure.
Prof. Dani Ben-Zvi, from the Faculty of Medicine, for his work on preserving muscle and bone mass during weight loss. Rapid weight loss, whether through surgery, medication, or lifestyle changes, often leads to a loss of not only fat tissue but also muscle and bone mass. This can result in increased risks of conditions such as sarcopenia and osteoporosis. With the growing availability of weight-loss medications, preserving muscle and bone mass is becoming increasingly critical. Prof. Ben-Zvi’s project focuses on developing new molecules to prevent muscle and bone loss during weight reduction by enhancing the body’s natural mechanisms for maintaining their strength.
Prof. Ami Citri, from the Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC), for his work on improving the safety and efficacy of psychiatric medications. Prof. Citri’s project involves developing a novel automated system, HOMECAGE, for the continuous and precise monitoring of individual mice within a social group. By maintaining their social structure, this innovative system supports preclinical trials for evaluating psychiatric medication safety and efficacy. HOMECAGE is expected to enhance experimental precision, reduce costs, and facilitate the development of safer and more effective treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
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 eight 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.
The ERC, set up by the European Union in 2007, is the premier European funding organisation for excellent frontier research. It funds creative researchers of any nationality and age, to run projects based across Europe. The ERC offers four core grant schemes: Starting Grants, Consolidator Grants, Advanced Grants and Synergy Grants. With its additional Proof of Concept Grant scheme, the ERC helps grantees to bridge the gap between their pioneering research and early phases of its commercialisation. The ERC is led by an independent governing body, the Scientific Council.