Israeli brain research took a share of the spotlight at the Israeli Presidential Conference in Jerusalem, showcasing scientific breakthroughs from researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv University, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Haifa University, and Bar-Ilan University.

The interactive exhibits gave a look behind the scenes of leading senior and young scientists researching novel therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer’s disease; research in the field of computer vision, featuring a wearable vision system for the blind that resembles Google Glass; breakthrough techniques in MRI imaging; and a protective approach to treat brain diseases, among others.

The exhibit also highlighted Israel’s role in the Human Brain Project, a landmark research project being funded by a grant of over one billion euros from the European Union.

The brain science exhibit titled, Tomorrow: State of Mind, also marked the public launch of the Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences(ELSC) at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

President Shimon Peres helped Lily Safra cut the red ribbon.

“This Center is already home to some of the world’s most exceptional scientists and students, and I am certain that they will continue to make groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the human brain. It is one of the most innovative brain research centers in the world, and it represents hope for all of us, particularly for those whose families have been touched by diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s,” said Safra.

In honor of Peres’s 90th birthday, Safra announced the establishment of the Shimon Peres Postdoctoral Fellowship at ELSC.

“President Peres is an extraordinary advocate for neuroscience research, and I am confident that the young researchers who will receive the fellowship that bears his name will, over the years, help us unlock the mysteries of the brain,” she said.