Our Alumni
The Charney School of Marine Sciences train the next generation of scientists and professionals required for continued marine science developments and research. Graduates of the school’s postgraduate programs are currently playing leading roles in Israeli and global research, industry, economy, security and government organizations, and have positions at top commercial enterprises around the world.
Meet our alumni.
Alyssa Victoria Pietraszek
Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Marine Geosciences, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences
Adjunct Faculty, Bryant University and Southern New Hampshire University
M.Sc., Department of Marine Geosciences
“My time in the Department of Marine Geosciences provided me with a strong foundation to continue in the field of marine sciences. Both the school and my lab offered abundant opportunities for invaluable field experience, which enhanced my skills as both a scientific diver and researcher. In the classroom, the wide range of courses ensured that I gained a solid understanding of various fields of marine science. Additionally, presenting at conferences, both in Israel and abroad, as well as serving as a Teaching Assistant, was instrumental in honing my communication skills across different mediums. On a personal level, my advisor and the other professors I met along the way provided a fantastic support system, always willing to go above and beyond to offer assistance and guidance. The diverse experiences and strong support network at the Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences have been invaluable in preparing me for where I am today.”
Omry Nachum
Geological consultant, project manager for geophysical surveys, and PhD student in Marine Geosciences
M.Sc., Department of Marine Geosciences
“My studies in the Department of Marine Geosciences essentially gave me all the knowledge that allow me to work in my current fields and enabled me to understand and specialize in my main field of interest – coastal sedimentology and the coastal geological system. The department even introduced me to geophysics, a branch of science I had not been familiar with previously. The many courses in geophysics during the master’s degree program take you from theory to practical applications. That preparation provided a seamless entry into this field, which I found fascinating and gave me the opportunity to work on some of the largest and most interesting projects in Israel in recent years. Without my studies in the department, I would have changed course and I would not be currently employed in this field that I sought to work in before beginning my education.
Studying in the department was an extraordinary experience. The department is both intimate and international, and its family-like atmosphere is very caring for its students. The department in general and lecturers in particular encourage critical thinking, a multidisciplinary view of research topics, independent thinking, and personal development towards the research area in which you want to specialize. The international nature of the department is one of its most important aspects. Alongside the experience of studying with colleagues who have similar interests as you but come from different cultures, students in the department are also exposed to a variety of opinions, perspectives, and methods that are taught in other parts of the world. Finally, the personal concern and assistance I received at the department was incredible. It truly made me feel that department staff care about me on a personal level, as well as academically.”
Peleg Itay
Co-founder and CEO of a cultured meat (fish) startup
M.Sc., Department of Marine Biology
“After completing my master’s degree, I debated between pursuing a doctorate and looking for a job at a biotechnology company, preferably in the environmental protection field. Because I studied fish pathologies and gained experience in lab work, I envisioned my future as a member of a scientific team working on direct or indirect protection of the marine environment. A chance meeting led me to a project focused on alternative proteins located in the Valley of Springs, the heart of Israel’s aquaculture industry. My company is developing a platform for transforming tissue from any species of fish into a cell line from which cultivated meat products can be produced. As CEO, my role is to focus on everything adjacent to the scientific work, but my fluency in both business and science allows me to work with the scientific team, while trying to mediate the scientific concepts into terminology that investors can understand.
The learning experience in the department is special, because of the family-like atmosphere and the smiling faces in every lab and down every corridor. Both the academic and administrative staff want to aid the success of students, investing their time and energy to make that happen. Graduate-level research always encounters difficulties: experiments that fail, results that don’t always comply with logic and common sense, epidemics that cause delays of many months… but there was no one in the department that I turned to for help who didn’t offer their assistance; there was no one I asked for advice who didn’t have time to listen to me. This concern, alongside the human diversity, make the School of Marine Sciences a hotbed for cultivating unique individuals.”
Dr. Talmon Alexandri
Researcher in Marine Technologies Dept., Underwater Acoustic and Navigation Lab
PhD, School of Marine Sciences
“Currently, I’m working on a shipping noise analysis project to assess the maintenance status of ship systems. The project is being carried out as applied research as part of my post-doc, with the intention of establishing a company that will focus on this area. As a result, I’m receiving support from the Israeli National Center of Blue Economy (a startup incubator in Haifa).
My efforts today are a direct result of studying at the School of Marine Sciences. Before coming to the university, I was involved in maritime endeavors, but during my studies, my occupational focus changed and became directly linked to my field of research. My student experience at the school was outstanding. Firstly, the university supports each student and allows everyone to progress according to the limitations that life presents. Secondly, and certainly most importantly, my academic adviser was very, very involved and was the key to my academic success.”
Oded Ezra
Freelance underwater surveyor
M.Sc., Marine Geosciences Department
“I’m currently involved in a variety of research and commercial projects, primarily in the areas of underwater robotics and hydrography in Israel and around the world. In addition, I design and build photography systems for underwater research.
During my studies and research in the Charney School of Marine Sciences, I acquired practical tools such as creating bathymetric maps and analyzing and presenting data from the sonar systems and robots I work with. My studies and especially the research I carried out allowed me to become acquainted first-hand with academic thought processes. That helps me even today when I work and advise scientific projects. Even outside the scientific world, that personal experience allows me to bring an advanced level of knowledge and work capacity to projects in other fields. “
Dr. Amikam Bar-Gil
Co-founder and CTO, Yemoja Ltd.
PhD, Marine Biology Department
“I’m the chief technology officer and one of the founders of Yemoja, which grows micro-algae to supply ingredients for cosmetics, nutriceuticals, and in the future, even for pharmaceuticals. My studies gave me the tools I need to be a scientist. The department’s openness to new methods and instrumentation, one of its greatest strengths, broadens your horizons and opens your mind to the use of new technologies in the marine sciences. My personal experience in the department was no less than perfect. Starting with my advisor who gave me all the tools I needed to become an independent researcher and scientist; to the lab manager, who assisted in every way possible and was open to all of my “crazy” ideas; to the department researchers whose doors’ were always open for advice; to their labs and lab managers, who were always willing to lend a hand. The administrative staff was efficient, fast, and always welcoming and did their best to help with bureaucratic procedures. For me, the department was and still is a family.”
Deborah Levy
Algorithm engineer at VISEAO – Marine Imaging Lab at the School of Marine Sciences
M.Sc., Marine Technologies Department
“Today I work as a computer vision algorithm engineer in Prof. Tali Treibitz’s Marine Imaging Lab. I am involved in the research and development of algorithms to improve underwater imagery and video using machine learning and artificial intelligence.
My studies at the school have provided me with research skills and broad professional knowledge in the field of underwater computer vision. The push for excellence in the lab allowed me to dive deep into research topics and improve my engineering and academic skills. As a result, I published an article at CVPR, the world’s largest conference in the field of computer vision.”
Tomer Ketter
Data analyst at the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping (CCOM), University of New Hampshire
M.Sc., Marine Geosciences Department
“After graduating with a B.Sc. in marine science, I had big dreams of research cruises in distant locales, groundbreaking technology and discoveries in the deep sea, and the opportunity to take part in global oceanic exploration. During my M.Sc. studies at the Marine Geosciences Department in Haifa, I accumulated the knowledge and tools to advance step by step in this field. I’ve realized my dreams — and now I have an appetite for more. In my three years at the department, I learned the scientific foundation I needed, became familiar with absolutely essential computer software, got to know experts who gave me a chance – and I started off on my own path. Today I work at the Center for Coastal and Oceanic Mapping (CCOM) on a number of projects, the main one being Seabed 2030, which is seeking to complete the mapping of all of the world’s oceans in the next decade. I also contribute to the National Science Foundation’s Multibeam Advisory Committee, which was established to improve the mapping capacities of the US academic research fleet, composed of more than 20 advanced research vessels. My fellow graduates from my time at the school are close friends and partners in my professional path to this day!”
Itamar Davidesco
Algorithm engineer at a digital voice signal processing company
M.Sc., Marine Technologies Department
“My thesis focused primarily on acoustic marine signal processing. During the course of my degree, I started working as an audio algorithm engineer at Waves Audio. My degree work included a thesis and the publication of the article “Detection of Dolphin Whistle-Like Biomimicking Signals by Phase Analysis”.
My studies in the Department of Marine Technologies, the various courses, the labs, the experiments, and the work under my adviser all contributed significantly to me professionally. They’ve helped me both in how I approach problem-solving in engineering and in the professional tools I acquired that allow me to work with a variety of advanced technological solutions. In addition, the atmosphere in the labs and the personal and professional attention I received from my adviser were an outstanding experience for me, both personally and professionally. I hope that in the future, it will be possible for me to return to the lab to continue my work and research there.”
Murad Safadi
Marine geologist at ADYR Constructions
M.Sc., Marine Geosciences Department
“During the construction of the Haifa Bay Port, I supervised and managed the sea-based tasks, with an emphasis on constructing breakwaters, carrying out marine excavations, laying and casting underwater geotechnical marine mattresses, carrying out and overseeing seabed mapping surveys using multibeam sonar, and multiple diving surveys. In addition, I’ve participated in numerous marine projects, such as sand nourishment on beaches, cliff preservation, and leading geological, geotechnical, and environmental surveys for future projects in the maritime space.
Today, I see and live the direct correlation between everything I experienced during my studies at the Marine Geosciences Department, and my ability to analyze findings that present themselves during a project. As a student, I felt privileged to meet marine scientists while studying and learning about leading-edge marine science. Not a day goes by when I don’t use the advanced, comprehensive methods and knowledge I acquired during my studies!”
Dr. Roy Jaijel
Scientific Director at Agma – Watershed and River Center
PhD, Marine Geosciences Department
“As part of my doctoral studies, I acquired multiple tools that help me in my work today as the scientific director of Agma – the Watershed and River Center. Among other things, I learned about the need for multidisciplinary study to answer complex questions; the need to examine experimental results and samples in depth; and the need to do everything with the integrative, critical perspective of the main research queries. As part of my studies, I participated in marine research missions in Israel and around the world, as well as in scientific conferences. Both contributed greatly to my professional development, and helped me create relationships with researchers from different countries, who help me in my work even today.”
Adi Zvifler
PhD student at the University of Western Australia
M.Sc., Marine Biology Department
“Studying for a master’s degree in the Department of Marine Biology, jointly facilitated by the Department of Marine Technologies, deepened my desire to focus on research of my favorite place – the sea. I gained knowledge and experience in diverse research methods and made connections with researchers in Israel and around the world. My interests include the biology and ecology of coral reefs, as well as the preservation and management of those reefs. I’m interested in working on unique and under-researched reef systems. I feel my research in these areas can make the greatest contribution to improving our understanding of reef systems’ response and resilience to climate change and anthropogenic impacts.
I’m currently in my second year of doctoral studies at the University of Western Australia in Perth, Australia. My research project focuses on damaged reef systems in Western Australia. My goal is to explore the potential of these unsightly reefs to function as reef refuges or as a source for recruitment of corals to ease the ongoing management, resilience, and rehabilitation of the reefs that have been severely damaged by the continuing effects of climate change.”
Allaka Himabindu
Manager at the Production Technology Development Centre, L&T Defence, India.
PhD & M.Sc., Marine Technologies Department
“I am currently working as a manager at the Production Technology Development Centre, L&T Defence, India. My primary focus lies in the development of AI/ML algorithms that contribute to enhancing surveillance, target recognition, and navigation capabilities for various unmanned platforms, including aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles.
My journey in this fascinating domain traces back to my formative years at the Hatter Department of Marine Technologies. I spent seven enriching years at the Marine Sciences School, completing both my Masters and PhD studies.
My masters research project titled “Motion Assessment of Planing Craft in Seaway (MAPCS)” focused on developing a computation model to predict the accelerations experienced by planing craft in seaways. Graduating with ‘Summa cum laude,’ I was inspired to pursue research in Marine unmanned systems. I continued for my PhD research titled “Methods for Enhancing the Operationability of Autonomous Planing Monohulls,” which was recognized and awarded the Gold Medal and Cladder’s Prize for Best Research by the Royal Institute of Naval Architecture, UK.
Being an international student from India, adapting to a new language and culture was an effortless experience, thanks to the great support I received from my supervisor, colleagues at the Subsea Engineering Lab, and the entire faculty. The exceptional learning and research experiences I gained at the Subsea Engineering Lab significantly influenced my professional growth and continue to be pivotal in my current role. I express my heartfelt appreciation for the exceptional infrastructure, education standards, and support that the department and the university have consistently provided”
Lior Suchoy
PhD student at Imperial College London
M.Sc., Marine Geosciences Department
“I am a research student and doctoral candidate focused on the dynamics of subducting tectonic plates in the Department of Earth Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. My research focuses on building two- and three-dimensional numerical models that very accurately simulate the physical forces acting on tectonic plates. Using the models, I investigate the factors that determine subduction characteristics, and as a result, affect plate tectonics around the globe. My research in the Department of Marine Geosciences stemmed from a collaboration between my advisor and researchers at the ETH Zurich Institute of Technology in Switzerland. My M.Sc. thesis gave me the theoretical basis for the work I am doing today, as well as practical experience using some of the most advanced software in my field. The freedom I was given, along with the training I received, including study at ETH Zurich, contributed greatly to my independence as a researcher. Meeting students from around the world and the focus of the studies on practical tools created a unique, enjoyable, and enriching learning atmosphere for me.”
Dr. Reli Wald
Geologist and geophysicist, ICL Research
PhD, Marine Geosciences Department
“I currently work as an earth sciences researcher at Israel Chemicals R&D Institute. My research involves mineral analysis, mapping, risk assessments and general research support to ICL’s industries in the Negev (phosphorites), Dead Sea (potash), and abroad. During my PhD at the Marine Geosciences Department, I specialized in seismic stratigraphy and created a 3D model down to 1000m below the surface of the Lower Galilee basins. The model bridges between geological and geophysical data-sets, analyzing both exposed and subsurface stratigraphic units. My studies at the School of Marine Sciences were truly an experience. The school has an international atmosphere, with many international students and courses taught in English. The software made available to students are some of the best in the field worldwide, so we acquired highly advanced skills that are relevant for our industry. Overall, my time at the School of Marine Sciences provided me with very good geophysical and subsurface mapping skills that serve me well in my current work characterizing raw materials and mining areas.”
Gal Dishon
Post-doctoral researcher,
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
PhD, Marine Biology Department
“I am currently working as a postdoctoral scholar at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego, where I’m working on R&D for red algae cultivation techniques that may help reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by the cattle industry. My studies at the Marine Biology Department exposed me to different research techniques and to issues that are still at the heart of my work.”
Yelena Randall
Software Engineer at an analytics company
M.Sc., Marine Technologies Department
“I am now working as a Software Engineer at Charles River Analytics in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. The company develops software in the fields of sensing and perception, human-centered AI and user experience, as well as physical systems operating on both land and in the sea. I am working in the sensing and perception division on computer vision projects. My knowledge and experience I developed in my Master’s Degree in Marine Technologies in the Marine Imaging Lab helped prepare and motivate me to work in this field, and gave me a unique background that allows me to work in both computer vision and marine-related projects.”
Yaly Mevorach
PhD candidate in the Department of Marine Biology and Project CETI
M.Sc., Marine Biology Department
“I came to the University of Haifa because of the Leon Charney School of Marine Sciences, which is one of the leading academic institutions for marine research in Israel and the only one that contains such a wealth of departments and research areas. One of these is the Top Predator project at the Morris Kahn Marine Research Station, which has quite naturally become my second home. My research focused on the dynamics of the dolphin population off the coast of Israel. During my studies, I acquired tools and skills that helped me evolve as a researcher and provided me with the thought-oriented and critical perspective required by marine ecologists researching populations of large mammals in the challenging maritime environment. In particular, my studies helped me carefully select the field that interests me and where I want to continue. My adviser agreed with me and opened the door to continue researching the field that interests me.
I’m currently a PhD candidate in the Department of Marine Biology and part of Project CETI, an international multi-university initiative that seeks to use cutting-edge technology to decipher the language of sperm whales. As part of the project, I’m investigating the relationship between the whales’ social structure and their communication network, which includes vocal patterns and conversations between individuals or groups. The Charney School of Marine Sciences turned out to be the right place for me, where I could realize my dreams, grow, and continue to develop.”
Ra’anan Laipnik
Development engineer at a biotech company
M.Sc., Marine Biology Department
“I am a development engineer at Pluristem Therapeutics, a biotech company specializing in placenta-derived cell therapy. I focus on developing new processes and products at the company. My academic experience was both enjoyable and challenging. My studies at the School of Marine Sciences contributed to my capacity to successfully address developmental and research challenges, even in areas that I didn’t specialize in during university. It’s important for me to note that my academics provided me with the tools to seamlessly enter the biotech industry.”
Hagai Nativ
Rocky reef monitoring project, Media manager and photographer
Morris Kahn Marine Research Station
M.Sc., Marine Biology Department
“I’m a photographer specializing in underwater photography for research. My passion is making marine research and usually hidden underwater scenes accessible to the general public, and by doing so getting them excited about the sea and the marine environment. As the underwater media manager at the Morris Kahn Marine Research Station of the University of Haifa Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, and an M.Sc graduate specializing in underwater fluorescence photography, one of the things I like most about my work is diving in unconventional places. I love documenting researchers during their work and then using the results of that process for media and scientific articles. It’s wonderful to learn the intimate details of the sea, while working with and getting to know leading researchers in a variety of disciplines.”
Mor Arkin
Engineering geologist at a soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering company
M.Sc., Marine Geosciences Department
“I currently work as an engineering geologist at Blank-Lehrer, a firm focused on soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering. Through my studies and research, I learned to overcome obstacles, search for solutions, manage huge amounts of data, and present myself confidently in front of an audience and professionals from the field. My studies in the department gave me a considerable amount of self-confidence and pride. Even though I don’t currently work in the marine domain, I really enjoyed the way I acquired the tools currently at my disposal, which enabled me to secure my current position.”
Amir Bar
PhD student in the Department of Marine Geosciences
“I am currently studying for a PhD in the Department of Marine Geosciences. I’m conducting my research at the environmental sedimentology lab. My research focuses on beachrock along Israel’s Mediterranean coastline. Since the beginning of my studies, I’ve worked as a research assistant on multiple fieldwork projects. I’ve collected rock and soil samples on land and at sea, and worked on sediment piercing and drilling surveys and various underwater projects, in addition to laboratory work, mainly petrography and mobile optical luminescence measurements. My most significant experiences have been participating in underwater excavations, as a diver and team leader, in the excavations of the sunken ship near the Akko Tower of Flies and the ancient Ma’agan Mikhael B shipwreck, as well as writing my thesis. Following my M.A. studies in the Department of Maritime Civilizations, I decided to continue on for my PhD. Both the theoretical training, which includes in-depth courses in diverse disciplines, and the practical training for work at sea and on the coastline (and for writing scientific articles in English) have allowed me to excel in my current studies.”
Shelly Reuven
Researcher at a seed testing lab
M.Sc., Marine Biology Department
“Two years ago, I completed my M.Sc. in the Department of Marine Biology. Since then, I’ve work in the seed health laboratory at Hazera. In the lab, we perform tests to assess the presence of various pathogens in crop seeds. The tests are varied and include classical microbiology methods, ELISA testing, and state-of-the-art molecular techniques. In the lab, I’m in charge of molecular biology. My master’s thesis was carried out using molecular methods, which gave me extensive knowledge that is relevant for my current work. The studies in the department were enjoyable and interesting, providing many tools for working in industry.”
Shira Givati
PhD student at the Marine Biology Department
M.Sc., Marine Biology Department
“After completing my master’s degree in the Department of Marine Biology at the School of Marine Sciences, I continued on to doctoral studies in the department. My field of research is marine microbiology, and my doctorate focuses on how various environmental factors affect the cellular structure of the Prochlorococcus cyanobacterium, and how these changes affect the marine environment and other sea-based bacteria. The studies in the department contributed to my development as a researcher and provided me with tools that I use to this day in my research work: scientific thought, critical observation, planning experiments, and more. In addition, during my M.SC. studies, I was assisted not only by the researchers and members of my lab, but also by the students and staff from other labs. That type of interaction encouraging collaboration and the broadening of horizons characterizes our department. The collaboration in the department is also international. For example, I participated this year together with some of the members of our lab in a conference dedicated to Prochlorococcus in Cordoba in southern Spain. That was a very enriching and fascinating experience.”
