The Krill Prize Winners

Chana Kranzler

Affiliation at the time of the award:

Bar-Ilan University
Faculty of Life Sciences

Award Citation:

“For her pioneering research uncovering the hidden interactions between viruses and phytoplankton, and for illuminating their critical role in global marine ecosystems.”

Phytoplankton are marine microorganisms responsible for approximately half of all photosynthesis on Earth. They produce the oxygen we breathe, regulate the climate, and form the foundation of the marine food web. These microorganisms are in constant interaction with their environment, responding to the availability of light and nutrients, the presence of neighboring organisms, and predation and infection by zooplankton and viruses.

Dr. Chana Kranzler investigates how changing environmental conditions influence the life cycle of phytoplankton, with a particular focus on their interactions with viruses. In her groundbreaking research, she combines laboratory experiments with oceanographic sampling expeditions, tracking natural populations of phytoplankton and viruses. Her goal is to understand when viral infection occurs, which environmental conditions promote or inhibit it, and how these interactions affect the broader ecosystem. Her findings have shown, for example, how deficiencies in iron or phosphorus can alter infection rates, thereby influencing the cycling of carbon, silica, and marine life.

Dr. Kranzler’s pioneering work not only reveals previously hidden biological mechanisms but also provides critical insights into the potential impacts of climate change on global marine ecosystems. She is regarded as an inspiring scientist whose curiosity, creativity, and systems-level perspective are advancing our understanding of the hidden forces that sustain life on Earth.

 Menachem (“Hemi”) Rotenberg

Affiliation at the time of the award:

Technion – Israel Institute of Technology
Faculty of Biomedical Engineering

Award Citation:

“For developing innovative wireless technologies for cellular stimulation, expanding the frontiers of bioelectronics and biomedical applications.

The cells in our bodies respond to electrical and mechanical stimuli in a variety of ways. Neurons use electrical signals to control how we think, walk, and breathe, and they also regulate the heartbeat. Our immune system is likewise activated by electrical activity, while cells grow, migrate, and regenerate in response to electrical and mechanical stimuli—such as stretching and contraction—that govern how the body heals from injury. Despite their importance, existing methods for inducing these stimuli within the body are limited: they often require wiring, physical connections, or genetic manipulation, and frequently lack the necessary spatial precision.

Dr. Rotenberg’s work is pioneering the field of bioelectronics by creatively integrating life sciences, advanced materials, and biomedical engineering. In his laboratory, he has developed novel materials and technologies for the wireless stimulation of cells—both electrical and mechanical—across multiple scales, from whole organs down to the stimulation of specific regions within a single cell. His approach employs optoelectronic nanomaterials that convert light into electrical stimulation, as well as magnetic particles that enable precise mechanical control through externally applied magnetic fields.

The technologies developed by Dr. Rotenberg offer transformative solutions to longstanding challenges in medicine and science, such as stimulating the heart using infrared light and creating magnetically coordinated environments for tissue engineering. His work provides new insights into complex biological mechanisms and supports the development of groundbreaking clinical applications—all without the need for external wiring or genetic intervention.

Yiska Weisblum

Affiliation at the time of the award:

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Faculty of Medicine
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics

Award Citation:

Dr. Yiska Weisblum leads pioneering research focused on one of the major threats to public health—viruses with pandemic potential. The goal of her work is to predict how viruses are likely to evolve, identify their hidden vulnerabilities, and harness the body’s natural defense mechanisms to stay ahead of future outbreaks. In her research, Dr. Weisblum investigates the molecular interactions between viruses and their host cells—a complex network of interactions that influences patterns of infection and transmission. Understanding this “molecular game of chess” is essential not only for treating existing viruses but also for preparing for future pandemics. Using advanced genetic tools, she has uncovered previously unknown immune defense mechanisms, as well as viral weaknesses that may serve as targets for the development of new drugs and vaccines.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Weisblum was among the first researchers to predict the emergence of new viral variants before they became widespread in the population. She also identified promising antibody-based treatments. As part of efforts to prepare for future threats, she is developing non-pathogenic viral models that enable the safe study of how animal viruses adapt to infect humans. These models also serve as platforms for vaccine development.

Yonatan Belinkov

Affiliation at the time of the award:

Technion – Israel Institute of Technology
Taub Faculty of Computer Science

Award Citation:

“For his innovative contributions to elucidating the internal mechanisms of artificial intelligence systems and developing methods to intervene in their computations.”

Dr. Yonatan Belinkov is a researcher in the fields of natural language processing and artificial intelligence. His research addresses a fundamental question: how do deep learning systems that generate text, images, and insights actually work, despite remaining “black boxes” – transparent in their outputs but opaque in their internal mechanisms? Dr. Belinkov develops methods for analyzing, understanding, and intervening in these models in order to uncover how meaning is represented, how biases emerge, and how incorrect information can be corrected.

His work combines advanced computational approaches with principles from linguistics, extending the reach of artificial intelligence into fields such as computational biology – for example, by building connections between different “languages,” such as human language and the language of DNA. Alongside his fundamental research, he has made major contributions to the precise control of large AI models, including the identification of individual neurons responsible for specific syntactic properties or factual knowledge.

Dr. Belinkov’s influence within the international research community is evident both in establishing new theoretical foundations and in shaping entire lines of research. His pioneering work sheds light on the inner workings of artificial intelligence systems and advances our ability to understand, interpret, and exert control over the technologies that are increasingly shaping our digital world.

Or Perlman

Affiliation at the time of the award:

Tel Aviv University
Faculty of Engineering
Department of Biomedical Engineering

Award Citation:

“For developing innovative methods for precise, non-invasive brain imaging using artificial intelligence, advancing the field of personalized medicine.”

Dr. Or Perlman’s research in medical imaging focuses on developing innovative methods for the early diagnosis of brain diseases and for monitoring patients’ responses to treatment through a unique integration of artificial intelligence and physics-based models. His laboratory aims to provide physicians with new tools for precise, rapid, and non-invasive imaging of molecular processes in the brain, including changes in acidity (pH), proteins, and metabolites—early biomarkers of diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Perlman’s work has already led to significant breakthroughs. For example, his research enabled the early detection of brain cancer responses to an innovative viral therapy, and the resulting model has been translated into clinical use at several hospitals around the world. In addition, his work has contributed to substantial improvements in the accessibility and efficiency of MRI examinations, reducing patient waiting times for scans and directly enhancing both patients’ quality of life and physicians’ ability to make more accurate clinical decisions.

The combination of interdisciplinary expertise, a creative research approach, and significant contributions to the advancement of personalized medicine places Dr. Perlman at the forefront of medical research.

Yiska Weisblum

Affiliation at the time of the award:

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Faculty of Medicine
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics

Award Citation:

” For her contributions to understanding the interactions between viruses and the immune system, and for developing innovative approaches to addressing future pandemics.”

Dr. Yiska Weisblum leads pioneering research focused on one of the major threats to public health-viruses with pandemic potential. The goal of her work is to predict how viruses are likely to evolve, identify their hidden vulnerabilities, and harness the body’s natural defense mechanisms to stay ahead of future outbreaks. In her research, Dr. Weisblum investigates the molecular interactions between viruses and their host cells-a complex network of interactions that influences patterns of infection and transmission. Understanding this “molecular game of chess” is essential not only for treating existing viruses but also for preparing for future pandemics. Using advanced genetic tools, she has uncovered previously unknown immune defense mechanisms, as well as viral weaknesses that may serve as targets for the development of new drugs and vaccines.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Weisblum was among the first researchers to predict the emergence of new viral variants before they became widespread in the population. She also identified promising antibody-based treatments. As part of efforts to prepare for future threats, she is developing non-pathogenic viral models that enable the safe study of how animal viruses adapt to infect humans. These models also serve as platforms for vaccine development.

Today, Dr. Weisblum continues to lead groundbreaking research in her laboratory, integrating genomics, virology, and synthetic biology. Her work advances our understanding of the immune system and expands the scientific tools available for combating future pandemics.

Yiska Weisblum

Affiliation at the time of the award:

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Faculty of Medicine
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics

Award Citation:

” For her contributions to understanding the interactions between viruses and the immune system, and for developing innovative approaches to addressing future pandemics.”

Dr. Yiska Weisblum leads pioneering research focused on one of the major threats to public health-viruses with pandemic potential. The goal of her work is to predict how viruses are likely to evolve, identify their hidden vulnerabilities, and harness the body’s natural defense mechanisms to stay ahead of future outbreaks. In her research, Dr. Weisblum investigates the molecular interactions between viruses and their host cells-a complex network of interactions that influences patterns of infection and transmission. Understanding this “molecular game of chess” is essential not only for treating existing viruses but also for preparing for future pandemics. Using advanced genetic tools, she has uncovered previously unknown immune defense mechanisms, as well as viral weaknesses that may serve as targets for the development of new drugs and vaccines.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Weisblum was among the first researchers to predict the emergence of new viral variants before they became widespread in the population. She also identified promising antibody-based treatments. As part of efforts to prepare for future threats, she is developing non-pathogenic viral models that enable the safe study of how animal viruses adapt to infect humans. These models also serve as platforms for vaccine development.

Today, Dr. Weisblum continues to lead groundbreaking research in her laboratory, integrating genomics, virology, and synthetic biology. Her work advances our understanding of the immune system and expands the scientific tools available for combating future pandemics.

Nir Shlezinger

Affiliation at the time of the award:

Ben-Gurion University

School of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Award Citation:

“for his groundbreaking work in the fields of machine learning, signal processing, communication, and information theory.”

Dr. Shlezinger’s research encompasses diverse topics including machine learning, signal processing, communication, and information theory. His work in model-based machine learning has revolutionized the field, offering hybrid solutions that combine classical inference with deep learning techniques. These methodologies have advanced critical tasks in wireless communication and tracking dynamic systems and established his status as a thought leader in signal processing.

Dr. Schlesinger’s work has led to practical applications with far-reaching consequences. For example, his research in the fields of massive MIMO networks, joint radar communication systems, and dynamic massive antennas, such as Dynamic Metasurface Antenna (DMA), has been particularly influential. Additionally, he developed elegant methods for designing signal acquisition systems that enable the use of a smaller number of bits, resulting in savings in memory, power, and costs.

Dr. Shlezinger’s research productivity and dedication are exceptional. He serves as an editor for several important scientific journals, has played key roles in organizing workshops and meetings at prestigious conferences, and has demonstrated his commitment to fostering innovation and discourse within the scientific community. His dedication to teaching and mentorship is commendable. Despite his obligations in military reserve service, he continues to inspire and mentor students and has received awards for teaching excellence. In doing so, he sets an example of how to cultivate intellectual growth, professional development, and social responsibility. Through his multifaceted contributions, Dr. Shlezinger serves as an inspiration to his colleagues and fellow academics.

Dr. Shlezinger completed bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in electrical and computer engineering at Ben-Gurion University. He pursued post-doctoral studies in electrical engineering at the Technion and in mathematics and computer science at the Weizmann Institute. Currently, he serves as a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Ben-Gurion University.

Chaya Keller

Affiliation at the time of the award:

Ariel University

Computer Science Department 

Award Citation:

“for significant contributions in the field of discrete and computational geometry”.

Dr. Chaya Keller’s research focuses on discrete and computational geometry. Her achievements in research are broad and impressive, recognized worldwide. Her work provides mathematical insights from geometry to engineer solutions for various applied problems, particularly in technology fields. For example, her research in frequency distribution for cellular antennas aims to optimize cellular reception across multiple frequencies at any given point. Another study by Dr. Keller involved using geometric tools to locate coronavirus patients, ensuring privacy protection by preventing the disclosure of personal information.

Dr. Keller was part of an international team that successfully solved the “Ringle problem” – a mathematical challenge in graph coloring that had remained unsolved for 60 years. The researchers demonstrated that no finite number of colors would be sufficient to color any set of circles in a plane such that every two tangent circles would be painted in different colors. Among her other achievements, we can mention her contributions to Krasnoselskii numbers, Helly-type theorems, and the theory of geometric graphs.

Dr. Keller earned her bachelor’s degree from Bait Vagan College in Jerusalem, followed by master’s and doctoral degrees from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. She completed her post-doctoral studies at Ben Gurion University, after which she served as a research fellow at the Technion. Currently, she is a faculty member at the School of Computer Science at Ariel University. Throughout her career, Dr. Keller has been actively involved in initiatives to promote and enrich girls’ participation in mathematical studies. She has developed courses for training mathematics teachers, created teaching systems, and worked to make advanced mathematical content accessible.

Raya Sorkin

Affiliation at the time of the award:

Tel Aviv University

Raymond & Beverly Sackler Faculty of Exact Sciences

School of Chemistry

Award Citation:

“for her significant contributions to the understanding of mechanisms and roles of proteins in the cell membrane”

Many physiological processes are characterized by dramatic changes in cell membranes. Dr. Sorkin’s work focuses on the effect of cell membrane curvature and surface tension on the activity of proteins involved in fertilization, cell-to-cell communication, and viral infection. Understanding the role of these proteins and how to control their activity will contribute in the long term to the development of new fertility treatments, non-hormonal contraceptives, and antiviral drugs.

Dr. Sorkin and her lab team have deciphered the process of creating microsomes, recently discovered cellular organelles formed due to local swelling of membrane fibers during cell migration. Microsomes store intracellular biomolecules such as DNA, RNA, proteins, and even intact organelles like mitochondria within them. Later, they are released into the environment as membrane bubbles used for information transfer and intercellular communication. Once released, microsomes can assess the neighboring cell’s condition. Understanding this mechanism contributes to a deeper understanding of various diseases, including different types of cancer, caused by defective communication processes between cells. This paves the way for designing innovative treatments for these diseases and producing targeted biological drugs based on microsomes.

Dr. Raya Sorkin received her bachelor’s degree in biochemical engineering from the Technion, a master’s degree in materials engineering from Tel Aviv University, and a doctorate in chemistry from the Weizmann Institute of Science. She completed post-doctoral research in biophysics at the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam and additional post-doctoral research in physical chemistry at Tel Aviv University. Currently, she serves as a senior lecturer at the School of Chemistry at Tel Aviv University.