At a Ceremonial Ceremony at the President’s Residence: Prof. Navah Ratzon Officially Appointed Chair of the National Council for Civilian Research and Development (NCRD)

The President of the State of Israel and Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Gila Gamliel presented Prof. Navah Ratzon with the official letter of appointment this morning. The appointment, approved by the President for a four-year term, represents a significant step toward strengthening Israel’s research front and national resilience during this period. Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology: “This is the fourth appointment of a woman to a senior position under my leadership

A ceremony held at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem (Monday, July 6) marked the official presentation of the letter of appointment to Prof. Navah Ratzon as Chair of the National Council for Civilian Research and Development (NCRD). The ceremony was attended by the President of the State of Israel, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Gila Gamliel, Director General of the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology Omer Shechter, Director of the Israel Space Agency Ran Livne, and Chief Scientist of the Israel Innovation Authority Alon Stopel.

Strengthening Scientific Infrastructure and Israeli Excellence

During the ceremony, Prof. Navah Ratzon received the official letter of appointment from the President and the Minister. The appointment was approved by the President of the State of Israel and will take effect for a four-year term. Prof. Ratzon succeeds Prof. Noga Kronfeld-Shor as Chair of the Council.

President of the State of Israel, Isaac (Bougie) Herzog:
“The National Council for Civilian Research and Development (NCRD) serves as the strategic advisory arm to the government on matters of national R&D policy, identifying barriers and recommending ways to advance research and development in Israel. At this time, the Council is working to strengthen Israel’s scientific and technological resilience in the face of evolving global challenges, with an emphasis on advancing research and development in the fields of artificial intelligence, climate, and sustainability. The Council is committed to deepening cooperation between academia and industry, in order to provide precise responses to the current needs of the economy and society.”

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Gila Gamliel:
“Prof. Ratzon is a scientist of international reputation with extensive multidisciplinary management experience. Her appointment represents a significant step toward strengthening Israeli research and development as a foundation for national resilience and economic growth. This is the fourth appointment of a woman to a senior position under my leadership, as part of a consistent policy of promoting women to positions of influence and leadership at the forefront of science and technology in Israel. I am confident that her exceptional abilities will contribute to advancing national R&D priorities, strengthening scientific infrastructure, and promoting Israeli excellence on the global stage.”

Incoming Chair of the NCRD, Prof. Navah Ratzon, stated upon receiving her appointment:
“I thank Minister Gila Gamliel for the trust she has placed in me to lead an organization of critical importance to the future of the State of Israel. Research and development are the driving force behind Israel’s economy, security, and social welfare. I will work together with the Council members to ensure that national investment in science is translated into groundbreaking innovation and solutions to the most complex national challenges.”

Extensive Academic and Management Background

Prof. Ratzon brings extensive academic and managerial experience to the role, having most recently served as Head of the School of Health Professions at the Faculty of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, where she managed a framework comprising approximately 2,000 students and 200 faculty members. Throughout her career, she has published more than 100 scientific articles, and her research integrates advanced technologies with clinical and rehabilitation applications.

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