News & Events
News
30 June 2026
"Catalysis Meets Cancer Research"
The core concept of "Catalysis Meets Cancer Research" lies in translating the powerful principles of chemical catalysis to solve critical challenges in cancer research
The RTICC and the RSCC unite to explore groundbreaking catalytic strategies for cancer discovery and therapeutics.
On June 30th, 2026, the Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC) and the Stewart and Lynda Resnick Sustainability Center for Catalysis (RSCC) launched their collaborative research initiative, "Catalysis in Cancer Research," at the Kedem Hotel in Tirat HaCarmel.
The kickoff event was spearheaded by Technion leaders, including Executive Vice President for Research Prof. Noam Adir (Schulich Faculty of Chemistry), RTICC Director Prof. Amir Orian (Rappaport Faculty of Medicine), RSCC Director Prof. Ilan Marek (Schulich Faculty of Chemistry), and Asst. Prof. Assaf Zinger (Wolfson Faculty of Chemical Engineering). Designed exclusively for Principal Investigators (PIs) and clinicians from both research hubs, the event established a dynamic platform for exploring innovative interdisciplinary strategies to advance cancer diagnostics, therapeutics, and biological discovery.
Molecular Tools for Clinical Challenges
The core concept of "Catalysis Meets Cancer Research" lies in translating the powerful principles of chemical catalysis, used in industrial and environmental sectors, to solve critical challenges in cancer research. By tailoring synthetic and bio-catalytic tools to interact with complex biological environments, researchers aim to develop highly targeted cancer therapies and ultra-precise diagnostic systems. This interdisciplinary bridge was highlighted in a plenary lecture by Prof. Ashraf Brik from the Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, titled "Lost in Translation: A Chemist Among Biologists."
A Catalyst for New Scientific Partnerships
To accelerate these cross-disciplinary alliances, the kickoff featured a fast-paced, interactive program designed to spark immediate cooperation. Following the opening remarks and introduction of joint funding opportunities, the event transitioned into a dynamic "TED-style" session where participants presented their research interests, technological capabilities, and clinical needs. The informal networking environment allowed PIs to deepen these discussions and lay the groundwork for upcoming collaborative grant applications supported by the new initiative.
Pushing the Boundaries of Cancer Research
The "Catalysis in Cancer Research" initiative moves beyond standard therapeutic approaches by utilizing chemical reactions to directly target and dismantle the defense mechanisms of tumor cells. This boundary-pushing synergy not only promises to deliver safer, more effective treatments but also to strengthen the Technion’s reputation as a global hub of innovative, multidisciplinary scientific discovery.
