Meet the Team
Principal Investigator
Oded Liran
I study how photosynthetic organisms adapt to environmental stress, focusing on the interplay between photosynthesis and respiration in cyanobacteria and algae. My research explores adaptive mechanisms in photosynthetic organisms under environmental stress. Each of the current running projects in our laboratory focuses on how these organisms respond to and thrive in challenging conditions, such as thermal stress, pollution, or the potential for energy production. We aim to understand how they leverage their photosynthetic and metabolic pathways to promote resilience and sustainability.
Research Assistant
Reham C. Khalil
I am interested in studying how cyanobacteria respond to heat shock, focusing on differences in thermal tolerance between strains. My research aims to understand their physiological and photosynthetic adaptations to temperature stress.
I am fascinated with complementary chromatic adaptation, and how it influences the photosynthetic activity and growth of cyanobacteria. I wish that my research will enhance our understanding of cyanobacterial acclimation to their constantly changing environment.
Senior Research Associate
Dr. Alla Alster
I am interested in the taxonomy, distribution, and ecological dynamics of algae and cyanobacteria in Lake Kinneret. My work focuses on identifying species and monitoring their seasonal and spatial variability, providing essential data for understanding bloom development and ecosystem health.
M.Sc. Candidate
(With Dr. Tal Luzzatto-
Knaan, at Haifa University & Dr. Shira Ninio, at IOLR)
Fatma Yassin
I am interested in studying the environmental conditions that trigger the synthesis of foul odors in freshwater cyanobacteria. These compounds deteriorate water quality and affect both the ecological balance of aquatic systems and the usability of water for domestic and recreational purposes.
Alumni
Jonathan Blaustein, M.Sc.
Israeli Institute of Technology (Technion)​