Among the World’s Most Highly Cited Researchers
For the eighth consecutive year, Prof. Koren from BIU’s Faculty of Medicine has been named to Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers list, learn more about his research
Prof. Omry Koren, head of the Microbiome Research Lab at the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, continues to set high standards in microbiome research. This year marks the eighth time in a row that he appears on the Highly Cited Researchers list, highlighting the sustained influence of his work within the international scientific community.
Clarivate publishes this ranking annually. It includes only the scientists whose publications are ranked in the top one percent worldwide in citation frequency in their field and year of publication. To appreciate the significance of this achievement, it is important to note that only one in a thousand researchers reaches this level. Prof. Koren’s continued inclusion underscores the lasting excellence and global relevance of his research, placing Bar-Ilan University – and Israel – at the forefront of scientific discovery.
The Microbiome and Human Health
This recognition reflects not only the high number of citations, but also the wide scientific appreciation for Prof. Koren’s groundbreaking contributions to the study of the human microbiome: the community of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live in and on the human body. His research has shown that the composition of the microbiome affects a wide range of physiological processes and plays a central role in human health.
One of his most influential discoveries focuses on pregnancy and how it reshapes the microbiome. In a study that drew global attention, Prof. Koren demonstrated how the microbiome of pregnant women changes during pregnancy, and how these shifts affect both maternal and fetal health. He showed that a balanced microbiome can support a healthy pregnancy and reduce complications, while imbalance may increase the risk of future health challenges for the newborn.
Another major focus of his research is the connection between the microbiome and inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Prof. Koren’s work identified specific bacterial species involved in the inflammatory processes that drive these conditions. His findings have opened new pathways for developing treatments aimed not only at suppressing inflammation, but also at restoring balance to the patient's microbiome — a transformative approach with the potential to change the way chronic intestinal diseases are treated.
Shaping the Future of Personalized Medicine
Prof. Koren’s research also contributes significantly to the fast-growing field of personalized medicine, widely considered the future of healthcare. He has developed new tools that predict patient responses to specific treatments by analyzing the structure of their microbiome. These insights help clinicians tailor therapies to each individual, improving treatment outcomes and reducing unwanted side effects.
Prof. Koren’s achievements are a source of pride for Bar-Ilan University and for Israel. More importantly, they lay the foundation for future breakthroughs that may improve the quality of life for millions of people around the world.