Prof. Elisheva Baumgarten, a leading scholar in the social and religious history of the Jews of medieval northern Europe (1000–1350), has been elected Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the Hebrew University. Her work focuses on the social history of Jewish communities in medieval urban centers, with particular attention to the daily interactions between Jews and Christians. She is especially committed to uncovering the lives of those absent from written sources, with a special interest in women and gender hierarchies.
Prof. Baumgarten’s research has significantly deepened understanding of the daily lives of Jews in medieval Europe and has earned wide recognition in Israel and internationally. Since joining the Hebrew University in 2013, she has served in several key academic roles, including Head of the Study Project at “Hevruta” – Study Groups for Doctoral Students (2014–2016), Deputy Dean for Research at the Faculty of Humanities, and Academic Director of the Mandel Scholion Center. For the past three years, she has served as Academic Director of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School for Advanced Studies in the Humanities.
Prof. Baumgarten will succeed Prof. Nissim Otmazgin, who bolstered the Faculty of Humanities’ international profile through extensive collaborations with leading research universities worldwide. His tenure was marked by a strong commitment to the values of academic freedom, solidarity, and openness.
Prof. Tamir Sheafer, Rector and the next President of the Hebrew University, welcomed the appointment, stating: “Prof. Baumgarten brings with her a unique combination of academic excellence and a deep commitment to the future of the humanities. I am confident that during her tenure, the Faculty will continue to flourish, innovate, and deepen its contribution to society and science. On this occasion, I would also like to thank Prof. Otmazgin, whose tenure was characterized by diverse activities, the advancement of groundbreaking research fields, and the nurturing of academic staff and students alike.”
Prof. Baumgarten will assume her new role on October 1, 2025.