Weizmann Institute of Science, a leading multi-disciplinary research institution in Rehovot, Israel, with faculties in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, mathematics and computer science, and physics.
On October 17, 1944, the Zionist Organization of America passed a resolution calling for the establishment of the Weizmann Institute of Science as a “living tribute”1American Zionists will establish a “Weizmann Institute of Science,” JTA Daily News Bulletin, New York, NY: The Jewish Telegraphic Agency, October 17, 1944, p. 2. to scientist and revered Zionist leader Chaim Weizmann. The Institute would be a fulfillment of Weizmann’s dream and be located on the site of the Daniel Sieff Institute, which he founded in 1934. Due in no small part to the gargantuan fund-raising efforts of Meyer Weisgal, the cornerstone for the Biophysical and Chemistry Research Center was laid on June 3, 1946. At the ceremony, Weizmann famously said. “I hope science will be the angel of peace, and though it has been harnessed by the dark forces of mankind, it will overpower them and serve humanity’s higher ideals.” 2 Cornerstone of Weizmann Institute Laid at Rehovoth Before Distinguished Audience, JTA Daily News Bulletin, New York, NY: The Jewish Telegraphic Agency, June 4, 1946, p. 3. On November 2, 1949, the institute was dedicated and formally renamed.
It is likely Ismar David attended both events. He designed the scroll that was deposited in the cornerstone in 1946 and the key for the Institute’s dedication in 1949. He designed the program for the Weizmann Reception and Dinner at the Waldorf Astoria in 1947 as well as the Golden Book that was a tribute to Chaim Weizmann in 1948. His influence, if not far more, can be seen in the lettering above the entrance of the Institute.
