Who We are

 

History

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The Israel Institute for Biological research (IIBR) was established in 1952 as a governmental research institute, founded by a group of scientists from the IDF Science Corps and from academic organizations. IIBR is located in the small city of Ness Ziona. Over the years the Institute has been engaged in R&D in the fields of biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences in order to provide the State of Israel with scientific response to chemical and biological threats. Alongside this specialized activity, IIBR scientists contributed to the  development of a vaccine for polio (1959); developed kits for  the detection of explosive materials (1980); developed of a brand name drug against Sjogren syndrome (1984) marketed all over the world and is one of four brand name drugs developed in Israel. In 1991, a governmental company, Life Sciences Research Israel (LSRI), was established alongside the Institute and serves as its business and marketing arm. Since 1992 a unique, a laboratory for the nationwide diagnosis of diseases caused by the bacteria Rickettsia, Ehrlichia and Leptospira was established in IIBR. Since 1995, the Institute has operated as a government-affiliated unit that research all areas of defense against chemical and biological weapons, including the operation of national laboratories for detection and identification of such threats.

Previous and current general directors:

1954-1960   Prof. Alexander Keynan, Ph.D.
1960-1966   Prof. Robert Goldwasser, Ph.D.
1966-1970   Prof. Sasson Cohen, Ph.D.
1970-1973   Prof. Alexander Cohen, Ph.D.
1973-1976   Dr. Amnon Ben-david, MD
1976-1992   Prof. Israel Hartman, Ph.D.
1992-1995   Dr. Shmuel Cohen, Ph.D.
1995-2013   Dr. Avigdor Shafferman, Ph.D.
2013-2021   Prof. Shmuel C. Shapira, MD MPH ​​​
2021-            Dr. Shmuel Yitzhaki, Ph.D. ​


About the institution

The Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR) is a governmental, cutting-edge applicable research institute, specializing in the fields of biology, chemistry and environmental sciences.
The capabilities, scientific achievements and international reputation of IIBR are a result of decades of research and development (R&D) aimed at defense from chemical and biological threats. IIBR's core activities have generated leading capabilities in: biochemical processes, genomics, proteomics, pathophysiology of various infectious diseases and chemical exposures, pharmacology, synthesis of small and large molecules, bioinformatics, mathematical models, remote sensing, monitoring, advanced chemical analysis, diagnostic microbiology, environmental safety and more.
IIBR recruits leading Israeli scientists and support staff and benefits from facilities built to serve the topmost research and strict safety standards. IIBR regularly updates scientific technologies and infrastructure.
IIBR works in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and the ISO9001 and 14001 standards.
Prominent R&D, service culture, scientific innovation and strict compliance with project work plans synergistically lead to breakthroughs and achievements.
Numerous publications in leading journals, patents, prestigious grants, prizes, innovation of an ethical drug for Sjogren Syndrome and molecules with therapeutic potential all lead to national and international recognition and collaborations.​​


 

Institute for Biological Research in Israel

Our Vision


The Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR) is a national center for research and development that specializes in the fields of biology, chemistry and the environmental sciences, and aims to enhance Israel’s strengths and fortitude.   

IIBR is there to guide decision makers, every step of the way, as they formulate their stance on potential threats, responses and the establishment of national goals. IIBR is an organization that forecasts the future and functions at the forefront of global knowledge. 

Its standing as a national research laboratory allows IIBR to operate as a breeding matrix for groundbreaking multidisciplinary implementations. 

Excellence, a quality workforce and organizational superiority, are the corner stones of IIBR. Through its work, it encourages innovation, versatility and initiative while developing a strong core of human assets and maintaining an optimal work environment.

Core values


Excellency

Members of the Institute uphold a sense of initiative, innovation, creativity and a deep commitment to quality in all fields of their work, in order to maintain their standing as a leading research facility. 

Purpose

Members of the Institute fulfill their roles out of belief and recognition in the strength and security of the State of Israel. 

Empowerment

The Institute works to promote and nurture its human capital and develop its workforce, while recognizing that the individuals it employs are its leading asset. 

Versatility

The Institute examines and analyzes changes and future trends in a dynamic environment. It initiates and adapts its capabilities to provide educated and optimal solutions.   

Camaraderie 

Members of the Institute operate from a place of deep commitment and mutual respect, integrity, understanding the needs of others, tolerance and principles. ​

Transparency

The Institute and its employees are working to expand and sharing their knowledge across the breadth of the organization, in a manner that is both clear and accessible.​
 

Departments

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  • Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Biotechnology
  • Ana​lytical Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Pharmacology
  • Physical Chemistry​
  • Environmental Physics​
  • Applied Mathematics​

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Managment Staff