Every day at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the world’s best scientists collaborate to unravel the mysteries of the human mind. Working together to explore the brain’s complexities — how we think, learn, create, and remember — these researchers seek to cure neurological diseases faster and bring life-changing innovations to the world. American Friends of the Hebrew University supports these efforts because we believe science fuels a brighter future.

Because knowledge moves us…to be better, to know more, and to discover.

Explore what science for the global good looks like.

Celebrating 100 years of Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity

Considered the most influential physicist of the 20th century and a founder of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Albert Einstein is best known for developing the Theory of Relativity. In 2015, we celebrated 100 years of Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity—a breakthrough that continues to transform our world.

But how does the General Theory of Relativity impact life today? Einstein’s groundbreaking theory paved the way for innumerable advances and subsequent breakthroughs of the 20^th and 21^st centuries.

In addition to E = mc², Einstein came up with another remarkable formula that continues to help humanity and generate knowledge: the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Einstein believed in the universal power of education.

Einstein, the Universe, and a University

Just consider some of the Hebrew University’s many discoveries: new medicine to treat Alzheimer’s; pioneering cancer research; advancing drip irrigation and eco-friendly agriculture; breakthroughs in brain science; leading developments in revolutionary nanotechnology and life-saving navigation systems for motor vehicles.

On the occasion of the founding of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Einstein said: “A university is a place where the universality of the human spirit manifests itself. Our university [the Hebrew University of Jerusalem] will develop speedily into a great spiritual center which will evoke the respect of cultured mankind the world over.” 

Einstein’s legacy of genius endures in the work of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The university that Einstein helped found has grown into a research powerhouse and a global leader in science, medicine, agriculture, and the humanities. We celebrate the Theory of Relativity and the genius of Albert Einstein, whose concern for humanity, Israel, and the world lives on in the work of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s scientists and scholars.