معرفی
Prof. Itai Benhar is a distinguished Full Professor in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology at Tel Aviv University's George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences. Since 2020, he has served as Director of the Tel Aviv University Center for Combatting Pandemics, and previously held leadership roles as Vice Dean for Research (2014-2018) and Department Chairman (2007-2011). He holds the Morris and Manja Leigh Chair in Biophysics and Biotechnology.
- Ph.D., Microbiology, Hebrew University (1992)
- Post-Doctoral Associate, National Cancer Institute, NIH (1992-1995)
- B.Sc., Agriculture, Hebrew University (1983)
Prof. Benhar is a leading expert in antibody engineering with over 22 years of experience. His research focuses on developing innovative therapeutic approaches using bispecific antibodies, targeted drug delivery systems, and nanomedicines for treating cancer, inflammatory diseases, and fungal infections. He has pioneered work on antibody-heparin conjugates for inflammatory bowel diseases and novel approaches for discovering GPCR-specific antibodies. His multidisciplinary research involves extensive collaborations with biotech companies and academic institutions.
Analysis of Prof. Benhar's recent publications (2015-2020) reveals a strong focus on translational antibody research with applications in oncology, immunology, and infectious diseases. His work spans from fundamental antibody engineering principles to clinical applications, with particular emphasis on bispecific antibodies, targeted delivery systems, and overcoming immunogenicity challenges in therapeutic antibodies. His research demonstrates a consistent trajectory toward developing more effective and specific biologic therapeutics.
- Alon fellowship for outstanding young researchers (1995)
- Federal Technology Transfer Award (1994)
- Hebrew University Faculty of Medicine Award for Excellence in Ph.D. Studies (1992)
- Prize for Excellence in Ph.D. Studies (1992)
Prof. Benhar has supervised numerous research projects and has been actively involved in technology transfer, with 19 patent applications to his name. He has consulted for several Israeli biotech companies including AIT, CEACAM, GreenVision, Intellect Neuroscience, SeraSense Biotech, MedGenics, and 4C-Biomed. His research has been supported by various grants that enable his multidisciplinary approach combining antibody engineering, medicinal chemistry, and nanotechnology.
Prof. Benhar leads a research group that operates at the intersection of biotechnology and medicine, with laboratory facilities focused on antibody engineering, protein expression, and therapeutic development. His team collaborates extensively with clinicians and industry partners to translate basic research findings into potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the areas of cancer immunotherapy and inflammatory diseases.
