Scientific Excellence and Innovation from the University of Haifa • Four doctoral students won the Presidential Scholarship

The University of Haifa recorded impressive success at the Presidential Scholarships for Excellence and Scientific Innovation ceremony, held at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. Four of the 11 doctoral students receiving this year’s awards come from the university’s research institutions, the highest number among all universities in Israel. The scholarships, totaling approximately 655 shekels, were awarded this year for research that deals with the effects of adversity and orphanhood on children, a field of particular importance at a time when many children are dealing with loss and crises.

Haifa University leads in the number of winners

At the ceremony, held in the presence of President Yitzhak Herzog and his wife Michal Herzog, it was emphasized that the selection of four researchers from the University of Haifa reflects the quality of their research and academic excellence.
Prof. Irit Akirav, Dean of Advanced Studies and Head of the Bloom School, noted that the selected studies "are gaining in importance at a time when many children are dealing with loss and the consequences of difficult events," and emphasized their possible contribution to developing a tailored response for families and children in situations of distress.

The winners from the University of Haifa and their research fields

• Hiba Halabi Avorokan, from the School of Therapy, Counseling and Human Development — researches the neurobiological, psychological and emotional consequences of maternal trauma on parenting and child development.
  Supervisors: Prof. Liat Helpman-Yahav and Prof. Adar Ben-Eliyahu.
• Hananel Goldfinger, from the School of Social Work — examines how parents of children living in distress in ultra-Orthodox society seek professional assistance, and how religious values ​​and community norms shape the encounter with professionals.
  Moderators: Prof. Guy Anoush and Dr. Netanel Gemara.
• Tal Eliosaf, from the School of Social Work — researches pluralistic thinking and conflict of loyalties among foster carers.
  Moderators: Dr. Nurit Novis Deutsch and Prof. Guy Anoush.
• Fida Bader, from the Department of Special Education — is researching the relationship between emotional regulation and depression among adolescents. Moderators: Prof. Noga Cohen and Dr. Joy Bentov.

About the scholarship

The Presidential Scholarships for Excellence and Scientific Innovation are awarded annually to outstanding doctoral students with the aim of encouraging high-quality research and promoting scientific innovation in Israel. Each year, a central research topic is selected, and the winners are selected by a professional academic committee based on their excellence and the quality of their research programs.