Asher Cohen

Asher Cohen is an esteemed Israeli psychologist and the 14th President of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, a position he has held since 1 September 2017. He holds the university's Samuel Sturman Chair in Psychology. Cohen's academic journey began at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he earned a B.A. in Economics and an M.A. in Psychology. He furthered his education with doctoral and post-doctoral studies at the University of Oregon. Cohen's early career saw him as a senior lecturer and Assistant Professor at Indiana University, after which he returned to the Hebrew University in the early 1990s to join the Department of Psychology.

Throughout his career, Cohen has made significant contributions to cognitive sciences, particularly focusing on the relationship between human perception systems and response mechanisms during rapid motor tasks. He developed a theoretical model predicting how abilities decline when performing two tasks simultaneously. His leadership roles have included serving as the head of the Department of Psychology from 2008 to 2012 and as the university's Rector from 2012 to 2017. In these roles, he led initiatives to recruit top researchers, create new academic programs, and enhance the student experience. Beyond his academic and leadership roles, Cohen has been involved in various organisations, including heading the Association of Senior Academic Faculty and serving on the board of the Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning. He is married and has two children.

Asher Cohen (Hebrew: ??? ???) is a distinguished Israeli psychologist and academic leader, serving as the 14th President of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem since 1 September 2017. He also holds the prestigious Samuel Sturman Chair in Psychology at the university. Cohen’s journey in academia began at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he earned a B.A. in Economics and an M.A. in Psychology. He then pursued his doctoral and post-doctoral studies at the University of Oregon in the United States, further solidifying his expertise in psychology.

Cohen started his professional academic career as a senior lecturer and Assistant Professor at Indiana University. During his time there, he developed a robust foundation in teaching and research, which he brought back to Israel when he returned to the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in the early 1990s. His return marked the beginning of a long and fruitful association with the university’s Department of Psychology, within the Faculty of Social Sciences.

In the early 1990s, Cohen joined the Department of Psychology at the Hebrew University as a senior lecturer. His dedication to his field and his students was evident as he steadily rose through the academic ranks. By 2005, Cohen had achieved full professorship, a testament to his significant contributions to the field of psychology and his commitment to academic excellence.

Between 2008 and 2012, Cohen served as the head of the Department of Psychology at the Hebrew University. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to advance the department’s academic and research capabilities. His leadership style was characterised by a focus on fostering collaboration among faculty members and enhancing the quality of education provided to students. His efforts in these years laid a strong foundation for future developments in the department.

In 2012, Cohen’s leadership abilities were further recognised when he was appointed as the Rector of the Hebrew University. As Rector, he played a pivotal role in recruiting top researchers from Israel and abroad, creating new and innovative academic programs, and updating existing curricula. His tenure as Rector was marked by a series of initiatives aimed at improving the overall educational experience for students. He worked closely with the Student Union to ensure that the needs and concerns of the student body were addressed, making significant strides in enhancing student life on campus.

Cohen’s research in cognitive sciences has been particularly influential. He focuses on the relationship between human perception systems and response mechanisms in situations that require rapid motor responses. One of his notable contributions is the development of a theoretical model that successfully predicts how abilities decline when performing two tasks simultaneously. This research has significant implications for understanding cognitive load and multitasking, contributing valuable insights to the field of psychology.

In 2017, Cohen was elected as the President of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, succeeding Menahem Ben-Sasson. As President, he continues to build on his predecessors’ work, driving the university towards greater academic and research excellence. His leadership is characterised by a forward-thinking approach, with a focus on integrating new technologies and methodologies into the university’s academic framework.

Beyond his roles at the university, Cohen has been actively involved in various organisations. He previously headed the Association of Senior Academic Faculty at the Hebrew University and currently serves on the Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning board. These roles reflect his broader commitment to the academic community and his dedication to fostering educational initiatives.

On a personal note, Asher Cohen is married and the father of two children. His personal and professional life reflects a deep commitment to education, research, and the betterment of the academic community. Through his various roles and contributions, Cohen has left an indelible mark on the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the field of psychology at large.

Asher Cohen envisions the Hebrew University of Jerusalem as a global leader in research and education. His goal is to foster innovation and academic excellence by integrating cutting-edge technologies and methodologies into the university's curriculum. Cohen aims to attract top researchers and students from around the world, creating a diverse and vibrant academic community. He is committed to enhancing the student experience, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring the university's contributions to society are impactful and far-reaching. Cohen's vision includes maintaining the university's rich heritage while adapting to the evolving demands of the modern world.