Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Hermona Soreq's academic journey began with a solid foundation in biochemistry and microbiology at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in 1967. She further pursued her Master’s degree at Tel Aviv University, focusing on biochemistry and chemistry teaching, which she completed in 1970. Her academic rigor and passion for molecular studies led her to The Weizmann Institute of Science, where she obtained her PhD in Biochemistry in 1976. Soreq's early career was marked by a prestigious Fogarty Fellowship at Rockefeller University, allowing her to delve into molecular cell biology from 1977 to 1979.

Professional Endeavors

Prof. Hermona Soreq's professional career is distinguished by her long-term association with The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. She joined the faculty in 1986 as the Slesinger Chair of Molecular Neuroscience, a position she has held with distinction. Her roles have included serving as the elected Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences from 2005 to 2008, and she is a founding member of the Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC). Additionally, Soreq has held prominent positions at the Weizmann Institute and Arizona State University’s Bio-Design Institute, reflecting her international influence and collaborative approach to scientific research.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Hermona Soreq’s research primarily focuses on the complex role of non-coding RNA controllers, particularly microRNAs (miRs) and transfer RNA fragments (tRFs), in brain-to-body functioning. Her groundbreaking work on acetylcholine-related pathways has combined advanced computational neuroscience with cutting-edge technologies such as sequencing, transgenic engineering, and microscopy. This multidisciplinary approach has enabled significant discoveries, including the identification of "CholinomiR" silencers that regulate anxiety, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Her research has also highlighted the impact of these non-coding RNAs on conditions like stroke, epilepsy, and metabolic disorders.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Hermona Soreq's contributions to molecular neuroscience have earned her numerous accolades and honors. She has received Honorary PhDs from prestigious institutions including the University of Stockholm, Ben-Gurion University, and Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg. Other notable awards include the Teva Founders’ Award, the Lise Meitner Alexander von Humboldt Award, and the Rappaport Prize for Biomedical Research. In 2022, she was awarded the Israeli Prime Minister’s EMET prize in Neuroscience, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the field. Soreq has also been a keynote speaker at major international conferences, further solidifying her status as a leading voice in neuroscience.

Impact and Influence

Throughout her career, Hermona Soreq has had a profound impact on the scientific community, both through her research and her mentorship. She has trained 26 faculty members who have gone on to contribute to various universities worldwide, including institutions in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, the Galilee, Beer Sheva, and internationally in Berkeley, Maryland, Halifax, Ann Arbor, Paris, Tours, Jena, and London. Her research on the cholinergic system’s involvement in stress, neurodegeneration, and metabolic regulation has opened new avenues for understanding and potentially treating these conditions.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Hermona Soreq’s legacy is characterized by her innovative approach to neuroscience, integrating computational and experimental methods to explore the regulatory roles of non-coding RNAs. Her work has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also has significant implications for therapeutic strategies in treating neurodegenerative and stress-related diseases. As she continues her research, Soreq is poised to make further groundbreaking discoveries that will influence the field for years to come. Her ongoing involvement in academic and scientific advisory boards, including those at Neuro-Cure Center Berlin and the ImmunoSensation Center Bonn, ensures that her expertise will continue to guide and inspire future generations of neuroscientists.

Citations

A total of 34743 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of her research within the academic community.