Bucking Boycotts, Prizewinning Israeli Astrophysicist Finds ‘Zen-like’ Perspective in Space

Astrophysicist Paz Beniamini, an associate professor of physics at the Open University of Israel, has been named a 2026 Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in Israel Laureate in Physical Sciences & Engineering. Beniamini, who heads the university’s Astrophysics Research Center, was recognized for research into some of the universe’s most energetic phenomena, including fast radio bursts, gamma-ray bursts, and highly magnetized neutron stars. His work explores extreme environments where particles move at extraordinary speeds and magnetic fields far exceed those found on Earth. The recognition marks the first Blavatnik Award for the Open University of Israel, highlighting the strength of its growing research community and astrophysics program. The article also emphasizes Beniamini’s commitment to international scientific collaboration and to education as a foundation for future discovery. Through the Awards, the Blavatnik Family Foundation helps recognize exceptional early-career scientists whose research expands understanding of the natural world and inspires the next generation. Read the article here.