Last week, Tel Aviv University hosted the symposium, “Exact Sciences: Igniting Tomorrow’s Innovations,” attracting a packed audience. The event explored the pivotal role of TAU’s Raymond and Beverly Sackler Faculty of Exact Sciences in shaping the foundational pillars of science and technology to address 21st-century challenges.

In his opening remarks, TAU Rector Prof. Mark Shtaif emphasized the profound impact of scientific advances on society and technology.

Exact Sciences Dean Prof. Tova Milo presented the Faculty, emphasizing its remarkable standing and its commitment to excellence. She acknowledged the challenging times for students and faculty during wartime and the accelerating international academic boycott of Israel. Prof. Milo highlighted the paramount importance of both internal and external support for students and researchers to maintain a semblance of normalcy and resilience, for the sake of Israel’s future.

Eyal Waldman, recipient of the 2024 Israel Prize for Entrepreneurship and special guest speaker, shared insights during an interview with Prof. Michal Feldman from the Blavatnik School of Computer Science. Waldman expressed immense pride in receiving the award, attributing it to the collective efforts of thousands who have worked alongside him. Waldman emphasized the critical role of innovation and entrepreneurship in bolstering Israel’s economy, highlighting high-tech exports’ significant contribution. Waldman also spoke about the role of AI in our lives, noting that AI is penetrating all aspects of our existence and making technology increasingly indispensable. He discussed the need for developing smarter, faster, and more intelligent hardware to support future applications. Additionally, Waldman underscored the importance of using secure and reliable data for machine learning, as well as the obligation to prevent manipulation of AI decisions for personal benefits.

The symposium included TED talks by leading faculty members, delving into technological and scientific challenges in their respective fields. Topics ranged from “Statistics in the Age of AI” by Prof. Saharon Rosset, School of Mathematical Sciences, and “AI in 2024: What’s Current and What’s Next?” by Prof. Lior Wolf, Blavatnik School of Computer Science, to “Mobility of the Future: Challenges and New Capabilities” by Dr. Bat-hen Nahmias-Biran, Porter School of the Environment and Earth Sciences & School of Social and Policy Studies;  “Quantum Materials” by Prof. Moshe Ben Shalom, School of Physics and Astronomy; and an overview of the latest research from the School of Chemistry by Prof. Yuval Ebenstein.