March 2026: Shomron and Tuller named Senior Members of the U.S. National Academy of Inventors

The United States National Academy of Inventors (NAI) has announced the election of ten researchers from Tel Aviv University as Senior Members in the Academy for 2026. Among them, Prof. Noam Shomron (Medical & Health) and Prof. Tamir Tuller (Engineering), Edmond J. Safra members.

The NAI Senior Member designation is a prestigious honor awarded to active researchers whose innovative work has led to tangible societal impact. It recognizes scientists who have made significant contributions through groundbreaking research, patent development, and the translation of scientific ideas into real-world applications.

Senior Members join an international community of hundreds of leading researchers whose work integrates scientific excellence with applied innovation, technology licensing, and knowledge transfer from academia to industry and society. The NAI comprises over 2,250 Members, including 945 Senior Members. This year, 82 new Senior Members were elected worldwide. The Academy, established in 2010, aims to highlight and promote inventions that can be protected by U.S. patents.

Prof. Noam Shomron's research is focusing on genetic analysis of human diseases, combining AI, machine learning, and genomic mapping. His research has led to multiple applied ventures and companies, including: Variantyx - a provider of comprehensive whole-genome diagnostic testing, Identifai Genetics - which enables early, extensive fetal genetic testing through maternal blood, EVerly Bio - which provides personalized fertility treatment solutions, MariposAI - which develops AI-powered analysis of breast cancer data for personalized treatment, Gotsho - which organizes medical data with AI-driven querying, and 4nZOK - which develops tools for field-based forensic analysis.

Prof. Tamir Tuller is the founder and head instructor of TAU's international iGEM program. His work combines biophysical modeling, bioinformatics, machine learning (including deep learning), and algorithmic innovation to address key biotechnological and medical challenges. His lab develops, among other technologies, viral vaccines, novel cancer therapies, advanced biosensors, and strategies for optimizing biotechnological production. Notably, the technology behind the cultured milk company Imagindairy, which received FDA approval in 2024, is partly based on developments from Prof. Tuller’s lab.