The new neuro-engineering lab has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the brain and create new possibilities for medical and technological advancements.

Tel Aviv University inaugurated the Selwyn-Cameron Laboratory for neuro-engineering during its 2024 international Board of Governors meeting. The Lab will serve as a dynamic hub that brings together young researchers from diverse disciplines, ranging from engineering and life sciences to psychology. Its inauguration was made possible by the support of the Selwyn and Cameron families from the Victorian chapter of Tel Aviv University’s Australian Friends Association. The project was co-ordinated in Australia by Rosie Potaznik who was then the President of the Victorian chapter.

Located in the ground-breaking Roman Abramovich Building for Nano and Quantum Science & Technology, the lab is headed by Prof. Yael Hanein, an electrical engineer and nanoscientist renowned for her work on artificial retinas. Hanein’s research focuses on restoring vision to people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), by using electrodes that interact with the nervous system. The Lab was already awarded a prestigious 2.5 million euro grant from the European research community, demonstrating its excellence in the field.

“I am amazed by the devotion of the members of the Australian Friends to Tel Aviv University, and more generally, to Israel,” said TAU President Prof. Ariel Porat at the opening ceremony. The President spoke briefly about each of the donors and their history of philanthropy. 

Eva Selwyn

The Selwyn family’s enduring legacy at Tel Aviv University spans over three decades, marked by their remarkable generosity and commitment to philanthropy in the realms of infertility treatment and engineering. 

Following the passing of Ada and Alan Selwyn, their daughter Eva, a longstanding Governor, has admirably carried on their vision, steadfastly supporting the university through various initiatives and programs.

Amidst the challenges brought by the Covid pandemic, Eva demonstrated her unwavering support by bolstering the Walter Kastelan scholarship fund. 

More recently, she has championed the funding for the Nano building laboratory under the leadership of Prof. Yael Hanein. Hanein’s research in artificial retinas deeply resonated with Eva.  “This important project made me feel like I was making a significant difference to people’s lives in helping them to retain their sight,” she said, commenting on her gift.

When faced with the tragic events of October 7 and the ensuing war in Gaza, Eva reached out to inquire about further ways she could contribute. Her concern for the students at TAU impacted by the war led to a collaborative effort to provide substantial funding to PTSD clinics, aiding returning reservists and members of the public in recovering from the trauma they have suffered.

In the past, Eva has called to update her donations during times of need, reflecting her genuine commitment. 

“We are immensely grateful for Eva’s unwavering support, recognizing and applauding not only her philanthropy but also her steadfast loyalty to the state of Israel,” said President Porat.

Australian Friends visiting the new Lab (Photo: TAU)

The Late Wallace S. Cameron

Passed away suddenly in February this year aged 79, Mr. Cameron is survived by his wife Joan and his three children.

Having come from humble beginnings, the late Mr. Cameron worked hard to improve himself through education. He graduated from Melbourne University with a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Letters.

His early career was as a barrister practicing in Victoria. He subsequently developed a significant pathology company called Gribbles, which provided services primarily to general practitioners by setting up a large number of pathology laboratories to service their needs. Some of his colleagues described him as a visionary, particularly for his foresight in molecular biology research and his recruitment of star scientists to the company.

A zealous philanthropist, Wallace Cameron contributed to and supported the Jewish community in many ways. Sadly, Wallace did not get to see his latest project to its fruition, but his family carries on his commitment, knowing that this is what Wallace would have wanted. 

The inauguration ceremony concluded with closing remarks from the Lab’s head, Prof. Yael Hanein. “Dear Australian Friends, I’m deeply grateful for your contribution to this endeavor. Your belief in our vision and your commitment to advancing scientific research is critical in allowing us to pursue new discoveries and innovations,” she said.