The Queen is to honour Israeli academic Rivka Carmi, it has been announced.

Professor Carmi, who is president of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, will be made an honorary CBE for her work in strengthening ties between the UK and Israel.

She has played an important role in boosting scientific collaboration between the countries as the founding co-chair of the UK Israel Science Council since 2010.

Prof Carmi said she was thrilled at the honour.

The council, which was set up at the behest of British ambassador to Israel Matthew Gould, has been involved in cutting-edge research into areas such as the use of stem cells in countering disease.

She said: “The council has been a flagship initiative, demonstrating the great potential for collaboration between our two countries. We are committed to improving the health of all nations and sharing our scientific discoveries".

Ambassador Gould said he was delighted that the professor was receiving royal recognition.

“Rivka is an inspiration, to me and many others,” he said. “Her leadership and commitment to strengthen science collaboration between our countries has made a huge difference. Israel is lucky to have her as a leader; Britain is lucky to have her as a friend."