Dr. Tal Gordon
Department of Life Sciences
My Life Before BGU:
I was born and raised in Eilat. After completing high school and my military service, I began a bachelor’s degree in life sciences at Tel Aviv University, where I remained for my master’s, PhD, and first postdoctoral fellowship. Upon completing my studies in Tel Aviv, I took up a joint postdoctoral appointment at Stanford University in California and the University of Padua in Italy.
Why BGU?
I grew up in the south, and I am both happy and proud to return with the desire to contribute to the region’s development and to advance research here. Equally important was the spirit of collaboration and support I encountered at the University and within my department. That atmosphere fostered a genuine sense of belonging and played a decisive role in my choice.
My Research:
I investigate how marine organisms regenerate organs following injury or disease. In my laboratory, we examine the cells and genetic pathways that enable tissue renewal and recovery, using a range of model systems that exhibit varying degrees of regenerative capacity. Comparing these models allows us to explore regeneration through an evolutionary-developmental lens.
An insight from my research:
If your research takes you in an unexpected direction, follow it. You can always return to familiar ground — but at best, you may discover something entirely new.
Something that doesn’t appear on my CV:
Even after, perhaps because of, countless hours and days spent at sea, it remains my favorite place in the world.
Source of Inspiration:
I have been fortunate to be guided by mentors who embodied both scientific rigor and strong personal values.
When I grow up…
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a singer. I quickly realized that was unlikely to happen; today, I lecture in classrooms instead, and I am very glad I do.
If I weren’t a researcher, I’d be…
My “Plan B” was usually to enter industry—biotech, biofood, and related fields.
In Brief
Summer or winter? Summer
Steak or tofu? Tofu
Shuk or shopping mall? Shuk.
Instant coffee or espresso? Espresso
Trekking or the beach? Trekking (at a relaxed pace).
Car or train? Train
Classical Europe or the Far East? Both
Ocean or pool? Ocean
Dog or cat? Dog (I’m allergic to cats)
Fantasy or reality TV? Fantasy
