Still the Best

Last year we were number two; this year we're back on top: The Scientist annual survey of the best places to work in academia has once again ranked the Weizmann Institute #1 outside of the US. Even more impressive, in the survey, in which statements were rated on a scale of 1-5 for disagree/agree, the line: "My work gives me great personal satisfaction," scored a perfect 5. We think that pretty much says it all.

For more on what makes the Weizmann Institute such a great place, read this interview (translated) with its president, Prof. Daniel Zajfman, in Haaretz Daily.

Speaking of winning, here's a photo of Ziv Zwighaft coming in first in a 127 km., international ultra-marathon in the Galilee. Zwighaft, who is a student in the circadian rhythm lab at the Weizmann Institute when he's not running, finished in 15 hours -- one hour ahead of second place. While most ran this marathon in groups, as a relay, about 100 completed the whole thing. Zwighaft says that scientific research is a lot like distance running: "You have to pace yourself, knowing when to push and when to slow down a bit; you have to be prepared for the obstacles in your path; to remember you're in it for the duration. But the goal at the end is worth it."