Trailblazing Science Diplomacy with Dr. Zara Lurman

In this episode of Project Good podcast, host Annmarie Hilton interviews Dr. Zara Lurman, a renowned chemist, educator, and peacebuilder who has pioneered the use of science diplomacy to foster collaboration in conflict regions. Dr. Lurman discusses her extraordinary journey from growing up in conflict-ridden Israel to becoming a global advocate for science education and human rights. Key topics include her innovative methods of teaching science through the arts, her extensive work with underprivileged communities, and the founding of the Malta Conferences, which unite scientists from hostile nations to tackle global challenges. This episode highlights Dr. Lurman's impactful career and her vision for using science to create a more peaceful and collaborative world.

00:00 Introduction to Project Good Podcast

00:32 Global Conflicts Overview

01:25 Interview with Dr. Zara Lurman

03:54 Dr. Lurman's Childhood and Early Influences

16:43 Innovative Science Education Methods

32:01 Human Rights and Political Activism

41:13 The Malta Conferences for Peace

50:38 Conclusion and Call to Action

Dr. Zafra Lerman is a world-renowned chemist, educator, and peacebuilder who has pioneered the use of science diplomacy to foster dialogue and collaboration in the world’s most volatile regions.

As founder and president of the Malta Conferences Foundation, she brings together scientists from countries in conflict—including Israel, Palestine, Iran, Iraq, and others across the Middle East—to work side by side on scientific challenges that transcend borders, from water scarcity to nuclear proliferation.

Beyond diplomacy, Dr. Lerman has spent decades fighting for human rights—advocating for persecuted scientists in the Soviet Union and China, including risking her own safety by venturing after midnight through dark alleys in Moscow to meet dissidents.

She also developed groundbreaking methods to teach science through the arts, reaching underprivileged students, including homeless youth and incarcerated individuals, by making chemistry accessible through music, dance, and visual storytelling.

Her work has been recognized globally, including multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations, the U.S. Presidential Award for Mentoring Minorities in Science presented by President Bill Clinton, and the prestigious Andrei Sakharov Award for Human Rights from the American Physical Society. She has also been honored by UNESCO, the U.S. State Department, and leading peace and science organizations worldwide. In 2025, she was awarded the International Advocate of Peace Award. Previous awardees include President Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter, Bishop Tutu, and Sir Paul McCartney

With a powerful personal story and decades of experience at the intersection of science, education, and diplomacy, Dr. Lerman offers unforgettable conversations about international cooperation, women in STEM, human rights, and how science can be a force for peace.

She is also the author of the memoir, Human Rights and Peace: A Personal Odyssey, which shares the dramatic true stories behind her life’s work. Proceeds support future Malta Conferences and peacebuilding efforts.