ISSI Scholarship
Bessie F. Lawrence International Summer Science Institute (ISSI) Scholarship
For Australian first year undergraduate science students, a major Weizmann opportunity is the annual Dr Bessie F. Lawrence International Summer Science Institute (ISSI) held each year in July at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel.
This incredible opportunity brings budding Australian scientists together with around 80 talented students from around the world to experience the challenges and rewards of scientific research, and learn more about the Weizmann Institute of Science and life in Israel today.
During the month-long program, students conduct and report on real scientific experiments, attend lectures from senior researchers on cutting edge research as well as explore Israel’s diverse ecosphere, its wildlife and amazing archaeology tours.
Projects are offered in the fields of physics, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, mathematics and computer science as well as more specialised areas such as bioinformatics, neurobiology, artificial intelligence and many more. After the lab work is over, the students present their own work, in writing and orally.
In addition to the scientific and social life on campus, the students spend a week in the Judean and Negev Deserts, where expert guides introduce them to Israel’s unique ecosytem and wildlife and lead hikes and excursions through its millennia of history and archaeology.
In partnership with visionary philanthropists, Weizmann Australia sponsors students from around Australia for ISSI each year. The sponsorship includes full program fees, accommodation and board, as well as travel to and from Israel, all to a total of around $15,000. Philanthropic partners include the Trawalla Foundation as well as private individuals. Students who are selected are exceptional in their achievements and passion for science and have graduated from high school the previous year.
In 2020 ISSI was put on hold due to the COVID pandemic, then moved on-line for 2021 and 2022. ISSI returned in-person to the Weizmann campus in 2023 and each year we call for applicants from late February. So if you know of any highly talented, science oriented students who would thrive on the academic, cultural and social stimulation that this course offers, please let them know about it. Watch a video that includes past student testimonies and achievements below.
For more information and to apply contact Weizmann Australia.
Inspiring Future Scientists ISSI 2019
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ISSI testimonies and stories
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