
Solaf Farhat is a young scientist who joined Migal this year ago, right after completing her bachelor's degree in molecular biology and chemical sciences at Ariel University. Solaf, 23, was born and raised in Bukata, a Druze town located in the far northeastern corner of the Golan Heights. I have always been interested in learning how things work at the most basic level. Even in high school, I knew I wanted to engage in scientific research. And the more I learn and develop deeper, the more I realize how much I want to engage in the field.
Our team is conducting research that we believe will help reduce crop losses caused by soil-borne diseases. We are using thermal imaging to identify disease hotspots, and continuously vaporizing the impact of temperature and moisture changes on the soil. I am completely committed to the project, and love working in the fields and laboratories at MIGAL. My university classes provided me with excellent training, and my learning is furthered by hands-on experience in the field.
My lecturers introduced Migal to me, and I quickly learned that it is one of the largest and best research organizations in Israel, and one of the most influential organizations in the north. I am grateful that Dr. Mary Daphne Yellin has included me on her team.
The biggest challenge during the war is that our team members are so spread out across the country. I started working in Kiryat Shmona, but with the alarms and the danger in the area, I now work whenever possible at Ohalo College in Tel Hai, Katzrin, where we are hosted. When I do statistical analysis and write, I work from home on my computer. As a team, we try to meet occasionally, but it’s hard. Everyone is supportive, and everyone is in the same boat – we are all trying our best to make crazy progress.