Administration: Mr. Gil Golan

Scope and mission

The Institute of Plant Sciences is a center for research, development and application of products and technologies related to both plant cultivation and open-range management (please see our institutional presentation). The institute is also active in educating and training the new generation of scientists in these areas.  In particular, specific goals are:

• to improve the quality of life and well-being of the Israeli consumer with respect to agricultural produce and utilization of open spaces;
• to improve the quality and competitiveness of Israeli agro-products in the world market, and thereby to promote the international status of Israel;
• to improve the management of open spaces in Israel for the benefit of the public.

Research objectives

Introduction of new crops

Vegetables Medicinal and aromatic crops New ornamentals

Breeding

Developing genetic tools for breeding programs Mapping and genetic markers Breeding programs for citrus, avocado, mango, pomegranate, olive, apricot and fig

Functional genomics, addressing:

Quality, color, aroma Size and shape Flavor Contents of sugars, vitamins, organic acids, and anti-oxidants