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04 July 2024
2024 Rappaport Prize for Excellence in Biomedical Research
His research not only deepens our understanding of biological processes but also opens the door to novel therapeutic approaches
Congratulations to Prof. Ashraf Brik!
Prof. Ashraf Brik, RTICC-affiliated member of the Schulich Faculty of Chemistry at the Technion, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Rappaport Prize for Excellence in Biomedical Research in the category of established researcher. Prof. Brik's innovative contributions to the field of protein synthesis and his deep commitment to advancing scientific knowledge have earned him this significant honor.
Born in the village of Abu Snan in the Western Galilee, Prof. Brik’s academic journey began at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He later completed his master’s degree and PhD at the Technion. Following his PhD, Prof. Brik pursued a postdoctoral fellowship at the renowned Scripps Research Institute in San Diego, California. Upon returning to Israel, he quickly rose through the academic ranks at Ben-Gurion University and became a full professor within five years. In 2015, he joined the Schulich Faculty of Chemistry at the Technion.
Prof. Brik's research focuses on the development of groundbreaking methods for synthesizing proteins with post-translational modifications. These innovative techniques have significant applications in understanding the structure and function of proteins, as well as their role in various diseases. His research not only deepens our understanding of biological processes but also opens the door to novel therapeutic approaches.
Throughout his career, Prof. Brik has received numerous awards and grants, including the Humboldt Prize (Germany), the Hirata Award (Japan), the Tetrahedron Young Investigator Award, and the ERC Advanced Grant, among others. His contributions have been widely recognized both in Israel and internationally. In 2019, he was elected to the Israel Young Academy, further cementing his status as a leading figure in his field.
Mrs. Irith Rappaport, daughter of the founders of the Bruce and Ruth Rappaport Foundation, commented: “The vision behind the prizes established by my late parents is to encourage excellence, whether in biomedical research, art, or women generating change. I am proud that the prize represents the values my parents cherished—excellence, equality, and mutual respect—regardless of religion, race, or gender.”
Prof. Brik's continued research in biological chemistry promises to lead to even more impactful discoveries, furthering his contributions to both science and society.
Click here to watch the video that was screened in honor of Prof. Brik at the award ceremony.
