As the Director of the Pediatric Nephrology Unit at Hadassah Hebrew Medical Center and Chairman of the Israeli Society of Pediatric Nephrology (ISPN), Dr. Oded Volovelsky is driven by a profound passion for pediatric medicine. His greatest joy comes from working directly with children and their families, unraveling the mysteries of complex kidney diseases, and applying intricate physiological principles to improve young lives.
In his role as Principal Investigator of the research lab, Dr. Volovelsky leads a team exploring innovative ways to prevent kidney disease at its earliest stages, even during pregnancy. They're dedicated to understanding how environmental factors and maternal health influence kidney development in utero, with the goal of developing interventions that can ensure optimal nephron endowment and long-term kidney health.
A significant part of their research focuses on helping children with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) manage their kidney disease. By working closely with patients, families, and a multidisciplinary team, they're uncovering new insights into TSC-associated kidney disorders and developing targeted therapies to improve outcomes and quality of life for these children.
For Dr. Volovelsky, being a pediatric nephrologist is more than a career – it's a calling that combines his love for science, problem-solving, and making a meaningful difference in children's lives. Each day brings new challenges and rewards, from diagnosing rare conditions to supporting families through their medical journeys.
As the Director of the MD PhD Program at the Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University, Dr. Volovelsky is committed to nurturing the next generation of physician-scientists. He strives to create an environment where curiosity thrives and innovative ideas flourish, inspiring students to push the boundaries of medical knowledge.
Beyond his professional life, Dr. Volovelsky is happily married to his wife Zohar, and they're proud parents to three wonderful children: Gilad, Itamar, and Yarden. His family continually reminds him of the importance of the work they do and the impact it has on families everywhere.
