Ben-Gurion University Opens The Stein Faculty of Computer and Information Science

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev announced this afternoon the opening of the Stein Faculty of Computer and Information Science. The faculty's curriculum and research address the rapid shifts in technology, particularly the fast-paced development of AI-based solutions and information technologies.

Establishing this faculty is a strategic move that reinforces the university's commitment to excellence in research and teaching. It solidifies Ben-Gurion University’s position as a leader in computing, data, cyber, and artificial intelligence, while meeting the growing demand from industry for skilled experts.

The Schulich Foundation has made an exceptional gift to Ben-Gurion University in honor of Mr. David Stein and his remarkable work and contribution to the foundation. Based in Toronto, Canada, the foundation focuses on improving the quality of life for Israelis and Canadians by supporting high-achieving individuals and organizations. Established by Seymour Schulich, it is one of Canada’s largest foundations, having committed over $500 million to philanthropic efforts.

Schulich holds Canada’s highest civilian award, the Order of Canada, and is one of the nation's most notable philanthropists. Mr. Schulich has earned a reputation as a champion for education and access to education in both Israel and Canada, with over 6,000 scholarships awarded annually through Schulich Schools.

David Stein is a successful serial entrepreneur and investor. He has co-founded, built, and sold two high-performing enterprise software companies: Rypple and Workbrain. David is now the co-founder and managing partner of Leaders Fund, a Toronto-based venture capital fund that invests in North American and Israeli startups.

Thanks to the generous gift from The Schulich Foundation, the new Faculty will be able to hire new faculty members, conduct more research, offer more student scholarships, and embark on international collaborations.

Shaping the Next Generation of Tech Leaders

Prof. Daniel Chamovitz, President of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, said: "Creating the Stein Faculty of Computer and Information Science places Ben-Gurion University at the forefront of the global technological revolution. We are not just creating a new faculty; we are building a laboratory for the future—a world-class center of excellence that will shape the next generation of Israeli technology leaders.

"With half of our staff focused on innovative artificial intelligence and our strategic location in the heart of the Negev and in direct proximity to the Advanced Technologies Park, we are establishing Ben-Gurion University as a global hub for groundbreaking technological innovation. This is a defining moment for the University, for the Negev, and for the technological future of the State of Israel."

A Hub for Research and Learning

The new faculty will consolidate the university's existing departments in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems Engineering, and AI under one academic roof. It will attract leading researchers and new research infrastructure to conduct groundbreaking studies in collaboration with high-tech industries in Israel and around the world. As part of its mission, the faculty will establish the largest artificial intelligence research center in Israel.

The faculty will be comprised of approximately 80 academic staff members, half of whom will be AI researchers, and will serve roughly 2,200 undergraduate students, 400 master's students, and 170 Ph.D. students. For students, this is great news that redefines the concept of an "attractive learning environment," as it will offer a far wider and more diverse range of course options. Students will be able to create a program from all the courses offered in the Faculty rather than being limited to one department.

Professor Matya Katz has been chosen as the new faculty's dean for a three-year term. A specialist in computational geometry and geometric optimization, Prof. Katz has authored nearly 200 publications in leading journals and conferences. He previously chaired the Department of Computer Science at Ben-Gurion University and co-chaired the program committee for the Symposium on Computational Geometry, a leading conference in the field. His recent research focuses on approximate techniques and algorithms for geometric networks.