Jerusalem, Israel –The Hebrew University of Jerusalem proudly announces that Dr. Roni Porat, a senior lecturer in the Department of Political Science and an important voice in the field of social psychology and conflict studies, has been named one of twelve members of the prestigious 2025–2027 cohort of CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars.

Now in its tenth year, the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars program recognizes and supports outstanding early-career researchers from around the world who are poised to tackle the most pressing challenges facing humanity. Dr. Porat joins an interdisciplinary community of scholars advancing bold ideas through collaboration and innovation across scientific and societal domains.

Dr. Porat’s research focuses on reducing prejudice and discrimination in deeply divided societies. Her work, grounded in the Israeli context, examines how education systems, public policies, and daily interpersonal encounters can disrupt stereotypes and foster coexistence between Jewish and Arab communities. Her selection reflects both the academic excellence and social relevance of her research.

As a Global Scholar, Dr. Porat will join CIFAR’s Boundaries, Membership & Belonging program, where she will work alongside international peers to explore the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion in diverse societies. In addition to receiving CAD $100,000 in unrestricted research funding, she will gain access to CIFAR’s global research network and leadership development opportunities.

“Dr. Roni Porat exemplifies the Hebrew University’s commitment to research that not only advances academic understanding but also addresses pressing societal issues. Her work on reducing prejudice and fostering inclusivity in divided societies is especially pertinent in today's climate, where building bridges across communities is more crucial than ever. said Professor Asher Cohen, President of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.We are proud of her recognition as a CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholar and confident that her contributions will have a lasting impact both within Israel and globally.”
The 2025–2027 cohort of CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars was selected from a pool of 232 applicants from across the globe. Scholars hail from leading institutions in Canada, the U.S., Germany, Ireland, and Israel, and bring diverse disciplinary and cultural perspectives to CIFAR’s research programs.
CIFAR President & CEO Stephen Toope welcomed the new cohort, stating, “As we celebrate a decade of the program, it is inspiring to see how far this next-gen initiative has come in supporting early-career researchers on their academic pathways. I am honoured to welcome and congratulate the latest cohort of Global Scholars to our research community, and look forward to the bold ideas, discoveries and collaborations they’ll help spark at CIFAR.”