Dr. Moshe Rishpon

In 1961, physicist Moshe Rishpon was carrying out research in nuclear physics at the Weizmann Institute with every expectation that he would continue as a research scientist—but then he became involved in the Weizmann science summer camp for high-school students. Though his participation in the science camp delayed the attainment of his PhD, it gradually became the central focus of his work. The summer program grew to become an international program, the canvas tents that housed students were replaced by huts, and in 1993, a permanent bungalow village.  

The ad hoc, temporary, outdoor science demonstrations of the science summer camp gradually evolved into the Clore Garden of Science, the simple demonstrations became permanent exhibits, and the landscaping was designed to integrate the exhibits. Rishpon also worked with biologists to add biology exhibits in an EcoSphere before transferring the Garden of Science management to his colleagues.  Since his "retirement" in 1999, he has traveled the world, performing with his characteristic humor and playful approach at science festivals in Poland, Slovenia, Finland, Scotland, Australia, and the United States. Rishpon received the Roy Shafer Leading Edge Award (2010) and the ASTC Award for Innovation (1999) for his exemplary accomplishments in the Clore Garden of Science.