It is a great honor for me to lead a prestigious institution like the Agricultural Research Organization – Volcani Institute. This privilege comes with a heavy responsibility: to lead the Volcani Institute and its various units to prosperity and success.
The Volcani Institute was founded in 1921 by Eliezer Volcani (née Vilensky) as an experimental station for agricultural research, which later became the Agricultural Research Organization. The experimental station laid the foundations of industrial, modern, and advanced agriculture in the Land of Israel. The Volcani Institute has been the primary growth engine of Israeli agriculture, as well as instrumental in improving global agriculture.
Since its inception, Volcani Institute researchers have been at the forefront of global agricultural research, receiving many prestigious awards over the years. The Volcani Institute has trained and produced many leaders in the agricultural sector in Israel and worldwide. Beyond scientific achievements, the Volcani Institute has made a tremendous economic contribution to the Israeli economy and the agricultural industry. Over the years, the Volcani Institute has played a central role in shaping the agricultural identity of Israel and has made significant contributions to food security, the economy, and Israel’s foreign relations. The Volcani Institute continues to work on innovative developments that position Israeli agriculture at the forefront of global challenges.
Recognizing the central role of the Volcani Institute and in light of its vision – innovative, precise, and sustainable Israeli agriculture that ensures quality food for the residents of Israel – the institute’s missions have been defined to include: leading and excelling in agricultural R&D, integrating biotechnology, engineering and data sciences (bio-convergence), and advancing agriculture and the agricultural sector while preserving the environment and nurturing human capital.
In light of the vision and missions, the Agricultural Research Organization must focus its activities on (1) research relevance and innovation, enhancing strengths and improving critical mass for research; (2) supporting and advancing Israeli agriculture for a stable food system; (3) supporting agriculture in coping with climate change by promoting research in precision, sustainable, and cellular agriculture; (4) strengthening ties with the agricultural industry and sector; (5) training the next generation of agricultural professionals while solidifying ties with the field – regional R&D, agricultural extension services, and farmers; (6) improving visibility to internal and external stakeholders; and (7) encouraging research and community activities with an emphasis on the geographic and economic periphery.
I am confident in the resilience of the Volcani Institute, which will continue to be a pillar of innovation, originality, and creativity in agricultural research for the benefit of Israeli and global agriculture.
