TITLE:
Development of an Applied Academic Research Institute by a Group of Researchers from Various Disciplines, with the Overarching Goal of Advancing Science in a Peripheral Region
AUTHORS:
Gad Degani, Dan Levanon
KEYWORDS:
Peripheral Development, Academic Research Institute, MIGAL, Tel-Hai Academic College, Multidisciplinary Research, Regional Innovation, Faculty Evaluation
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Applied Sciences,
Vol.15 No.9,
September
10,
2025
ABSTRACT: This study examines the development of MIGAL-Galilee Research Institute, as a model for the development of applied academic research in a peripheral region. It details how a multidisciplinary group of researchers operating within the framework of a regional economic development company created from 1985 to 2010 a research infrastructure that promoted scientific innovation, academic collaboration, and regional development. The internal academic organization, led by an independent Academic Council, facilitated scientific excellence and the growth of Tel-Hai Academic College. Through this collaboration, a Faculty of Science and Technology was established, offering degrees in food sciences, biotechnology, nutrition, and environmental sciences. Analyses using ResearchGate and Google Scholar show that MIGAL and Tel-Hai researchers performed at levels comparable to peers at major Israeli universities. MIGAL’s dual governance model enabled sustainable scientific leadership in a peripheral region and illustrates how regional academic institutes can decentralize innovation and support equitable development.