Jerusalem, 4 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) have launched a new partnership to develop technologies to improve civilian safety and resilience.
Researchers and graduate students from both institutions will collaborate on projects with potential humanitarian and commercial applications. Areas of research may include buildings designed to withstand earthquakes, blasts, and fires; stronger glass and windows that reduce shattering; and smart sensors capable of detecting toxic chemicals and pollutants in air and water.
The partnership will support student research, tuition, and stipends, while encouraging students to translate academic research and early-stage ideas into market-ready products, licenses, and viable business ventures.
The program was established with a $500,000 donation from siblings Melisa T. Gerber and David J. Gerber, providing separate $250,000 grants to RPI and Americans for Ben-Gurion University (A4BGU).