• Principal Investigator: Dr. Marco Gorghetto
• Dipartimento: Department of Physics
• Bando: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities, funded by the Italian Science Fund 2024–2025 (FIS 3 Call) – Notice No. 1802 of 21 November 2024
• CUP: B53C25004240001  
• Host Institution: University of Trieste
• Finanziamento UniTS: 1.167.385,36 €
• Abstract: Roughly a quarter of the Universe’s energy is composed of dark matter, an unidentified form of matter whose existence has only been inferred via gravity. Despite the efforts of the scientific community, its particle nature remains a mystery and dark matter searches have become one of the most important quests in Science. AxionDM will tackle pressing challenges in the discovery of wellmotivated dark matter candidates at the forefront of current experimental efforts: axions.
  Detecting dark matter axions is significantly enhanced when their interactions are resonantly amplified. This requires the precise knowledge of a critical quantity: the axion mass. However, the axion mass is highly uncertain due to the strong dynamics of QCD and the non-linear evolution of topological defects in our universe, implying that a first-principles treatment is only possible via large-scale simulations of the underlying field theories. The computational effort required is substantial -- thus, we address this challenge by combining innovative quantum field theory methods with modern adaptive mesh refinement techniques.
  Via these novel approaches, AxionDM will accurately determine the axion mass, marking a major breakthrough. It will also uncover other critical observables key for axion detection, such as the structure of axion dark matter on sub-galactic scales and gravitational wave signatures.
  The precise identification of the axion mass could drive a revolution: the discovery of the axion, with a detection revealing new insights into the early universe and implying the resolution of multiple problems in Physics. The results of AxionDM would also open up groundbreaking detection pathways through astrometry and gravitational wave observatories. The objectives build on the PI's unique expertise in combining cosmological simulations and higher-loop techniques, and will maximize the discovery potential of axion searches and large-scale missions in Europe, solidifying its leadership.

• Principal Investigator: Prof. Paolo Fornasiero
• Department: Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Call for Proposals: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities, funded by the Italian Science Fund 2024–2025 (FIS 3 Call) – Notice No. 1802 of 21 November 2024
• CUP: J53C25002320001
• Host Institution: University of Trieste
• UniTS Funding: €2.281.564.00
• Abstract: The project PESCHE-FU proposes a new paired (tandem) photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) approach where the photocatalytic conversion of biomass derivatives into added value products will be accompanied by a tunable electrocatalytic process towards either H2 evolution or hydrogenation of unsaturated organic molecules. Hence, the PEC technology will address simultaneous production of chemicals and fuels from a fundamental perspective, moving up to TRL 5 (prototype testing under environmental relevant conditions). The main elements of the project are based on concepts of energy efficiency and sustainability, where reactions towards useful products will be triggered using solar light and renewable electricity in environmental friendly solvents such as water. The target photooxidation products will be acetic acid and oxalic acid, while the electroreduction process will be investigated in the context of hydrogen production (HER process) or its direct use in hydrogenation of water-soluble unsaturated molecules (ECH process), namely olefins and phenols. The project is organized around four main areas: 1) the development of smart nanostructured photoanodes with selective capability to convert biomass-derived alcohols into acetic acid (CH3COOH) or oxalic acid, which are two highly important industrial compounds; 2) the development of new concepts for the assembly of smart electrocatalysts able to produce H2 or catalyze hydrogenation reactions according to the specific catalyst structure and stimulus-responding structural switches; 3) Understanding the fundamental aspects of the catalysis to carry out optimization of the catalyst/PEC for enhanced productivity and stability; 4) pairing the two photo- and electrocatalytic processes into a single PEC device for multi-channel synthesis of high-value molecules.

• Principal Investigator: Prof. Federico Rosei
• Department: Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Call for Proposals: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities, funded by the Italian Science Fund 2022–2023 (FIS 2 Call) – Notice No. 1802 of 21 November 2024
• CUP: J53C25002550001
• Host Institution: University of Trieste
• UniTS Funding: €1.899.999.99
• Abstract: This project aims to develop a fundamental understanding of photocatalytic (PC) reactions, in particular solar-driven water splitting, through a basic science approach. To this end, we propose to conduct detailed surface science studies using model systems to elucidate the complex mechanisms that underpin PC reactions. The insights we will obtain are intrinsically valuable to the field, yet are also expected to improve the performance of PC reactions, including the efficiency of solar to hydrogen (STH) conversion and the photocatalyst’s stability. Quantum Dots (QDs; their development was recognized by the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry) are semiconductor nanocrystals whose optoelectronic properties can be tuned by varying their size, shape and composition; QD structure can be tailored to optimize light emission or absorption. As such, they are considered as promising building blocks for PC water splitting. Our model systems will consist of single crystal substrates made of the same materials as QDs used in PC reactions. The model experiments will be conducted under ultra-high vacuum conditions, to remove residual contaminants. We will use high resolution scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM, which can attain atomic resolution) to pinpoint active sites, map reaction pathways, investigate the role of defects and study degradation mechanisms. Imaging by STM will be complemented by spectroscopic studies and theoretical calculations. The experiments will be carried out under illumination using suitable radiation sources to underpin photoactivation mechanisms. This approach builds on methods developed by G. Ertl (Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, 2007), the father of Surface Science, who studied model systems in controlled environments to better understand chemical reactions, e.g. heterogeneous catalysis, in particular mapping the details of the Haber-Bosch process in which atmospheric nitrogen is converted into ammonia using an iron catalyst. The proposed research defines a special opportunity, as it “combines” two Nobel-winning fields of research towards a completely new direction. The expected impact includes a fundamental understanding of PC reactions, potential applications in solar fuels and training highly skilled scientists in these increasingly important areas.

• Principal Investigator: Prof. Matteo Marinelli
• Department: Department of Physics
• Call for Proposals: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities, funded by the Italian Science Fund 2024–2025 (FIS 3 Call) – Notice No. 1802 of 21 November 2024
• CUP: J53C25002550001
• Host Institution: University of Trieste
• UniTS Funding: €1.088.125.45
• Abstract: Quantum networks exploit the principles of quantum mechanics, such as en-tanglement and superposition, to enable secure and efficient data transmis-sion. These networks facilitate the sharing of quantum bits (qubits) with inher-ent security features, allowing geographically dispersed users to communi-cate securely. Beyond secure communication, scalable quantum networks open new possibilities for modular quantum computation, enabling multiple quantum processors to collaborate and tackle complex tasks that are other-wise intractable. The TRIC project harnesses the unique properties of 171-Yb atoms trapped in optical tweezers to develop a robust quantum intercon-nect. This architecture integrates three critical components: a quantum memory for reliable information storage, a transducer that entangles atomic qubits with flying qubits (photons) for long-distance network connections, and a quantum computing unit capable of executing arbitrary operations. By lev-eraging this architecture, TRIC aims to demonstrate the first functional quan-tum repeater with high-rate atom-photon entanglement at both visible and tel-ecom wavelengths. Additionally, the project will implement photon-loss-resil-ient repeater states, laying the foundation for scalable and robust quantum networks. 

• Principal Investigator: Prof. Virginia Carnevali
• Dipartimento: Department of Physics
• Bando: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities, funded by the Italian Science Fund 2022–2023 (FIS 2 Call) - Directorial Decree of the MUR n. 1236 of 8th August 2023
• CUP: J53C25001910001   
• Host Institution: University of Trieste
• Finanziamento UniTS: 1.325.948,78 €
• Abstract: The aim of this proposal is to gain fundamental understanding of the electronic states of supported few-atoms nanoclusters. Nanoclusters are entities composed of few to tens of atoms, which are characterised by a distinct electronic structure, exhibit unique properties and thus provide ground-breaking opportunities in diverse fields including catalysis, optics and magnetism. One of their intriguing characteristics is that their properties vary dramatically by addition or removal of even a single atom, providing an easily tuneable degree of freedom to manipulate their properties. Since the macroscopic properties of matter are determined by its electronic structure, especially by the states close to the Fermi level, a precise knowledge of their energy and spatial distribution is fundamental for designing clusters with specific properties. However, experimental knowledge on these key properties is still lacking. Based on their electronic structure, small nanoclusters can be considered molecules, as our preliminary calculations highlight:
  thus, to experimentally investigate them, I intend to build on the successful methodology we have established for organic molecules, an approach combining scanning tunnelling microscopy and photoemission orbital tomography, a recent development of valence-band photoemission spectroscopy. These combined techniques, employed for the first time on fewatom
  cluster systems in a controlled vacuum environment, will provide essential experimental data on their fundamental properties at an atomic scale, by providing a 3-dimensional map of their electron densities. This will finally allow me to investigate how the interaction with different substrates affects these orbitals. These studies will greatly expand our understanding of nanoclusters, paving the way for a targeted use such as in catalystsby-design, overcoming the activity and selectivity issues of current catalysts by exploiting their unique electronic structure, or for nanometre-scale magnets. 

• Principal Investigator: Prof. Elena Ambrosetti
• Department: Department of Life Sciences
• Call: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities of the Italian Science Fund (FIS 2), Directorial Decree of the MUR n. 1236 of 8th August 2023
• CUP: B53C24009540001
• Host Institution: University of Trieste
• UniTS Funding: 1.322.384,80 €
• Abstract: Lipid rafts are nanoscale ordered membrane domains enriched in sphingolipids and cholesterol and play an important role in cell membrane trafficking and signal transduction by promoting the colocalization of membrane receptors, hence determining a defined receptor organization and modulating the signalling network. However, despite decades of research and investigations, existence and relevance of lipid rafts are still considered elusive. The aim of this project is to set up a DNA-nanotechnology-based multi-integrated platform for the analysis of membrane receptor nanoenvironments at the cell surface within lipid rafts, to shed light on their role in regulation of receptor clusterization. The method will combine a new approach, RepliSeq, which consists of DNA-based nanotechnology tool to decipher the nanoscale spatial organization of membrane proteins, with advanced biophysical (SPPi and NanoIR) and electron microscopy (EM and FIB) techniques. This  research program will provide new insights to obtain a novel molecular signature that predicts a selected membrane receptor status with greater accuracy and help to clarify crucial mechanisms involved in response and resistance to targeted therapy. The method will be developed by two different experimental approaches, entailing studies on artificial membranes and on cell membranes of model cell lines. As proof of concept, a specific membrane receptor target, Her2, is selected to demonstrate the feasibility of the integrated platform. Overexpression of Her2 in breast cancers confers high aggressiveness and poor prognosis but the clinical results suggest that Her2 protein levels are not sufficient to explain response to treatment. Our platform aims to study the different composition and spatial organization of the Her2 nanoenvironment, to understand the impact of potential increase of Her2 local density in lipid rafts, on Her2 oligomerization and on response to target therapy

• Principal Investigator: Prof. Pasquale Sacco
• Dipartimento: Department of Life Sciences 
• Bando: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities, funded by the Italian Science Fund 2022–2023 (FIS 2 Call) - Directorial Decree of the MUR n. 1236 of 8th August 2023
• CUP: J53C25001860001  
• Host Institution: University of Trieste
• Finanziamento UniTS: 1.655.283,52 €  
• Abstract: SOFTEN is an ambitious, multidisciplinary and groundbreaking 3-year project inspired by the evidence that cardiac regeneration may occur in neonatal mammals or fishes (such as zebrafish). This ability is lost in adult mammals like humans, making heart failure a leading public and clinical health problem of the 21st century with a prevalence of more than 23 million worldwide. Recent evidence shed light on the pivotal role played by extracellular matrix (ECM) milieu in cardiac regeneration. This has led to the hypothesis that although cells play an important role in the repair of the diseased myocardium, inducing cardiac regeneration may require tampering with ECM composition, and especially its mechanical properties such matrix softening (plastic behavior), likewise what happen in fishes. Very little information whether softening of ECM may, for instance, reverse cardiac fibrosis or induce cardiac regeneration are currently available. Therefore, innovative materials that mimic the correct extracellular biophysical milieu are urgently needed to achieve breakthroughs in understanding cellular biology and pathology. The overall goal of CARDIoSOFT is to develop a series of cardiac ECM mimics with adjustable softening (plastic) behavior in the form of a hydrogel network suitable for 2D and 3D cultures, and use them to advance the current knowledge in cardiac cell mechanosensing. 

•    Principal Investigator: Prof. Chiara Bedon
•    Department: Department of Engineering and Architecture
•    Call: Competitive procedure for the development of fundamental research activities of the Italian Science Fund (FIS), Directorial Decree of the MUR n. 2.281 of 28 September 2021
•    CUP: J53C23003050001
•    Host Institution: University of Trieste
•    UniTS Funding: €910,840
 

Abstract: Multilayer laminated glass (LG) components are largely used in buildings, for facade panels, windows, balustrades, slabs and stairs, roofs, under various loading and boundary configurations. Their typical application consists of minimum two glass plates bonded by polymeric interlayers, which are required to keep together glass fragments in case of failure, and thus to enhance safety for people. Compared to other materials for constructions, however, glass is relatively new and highly vulnerable. For this reason, simplified (and limited) calculation models and severely conservative design assumptions are used.

So far, knowledge is rather scarce for the assessment of early design stage performances and residual capacities in case of damage, and even more for in-service structures subjected to additional ageing or unfavourable operational conditions.

In this regard, HOPgLAz project will explore with extended experimental studies at the small- and full-scale the post-breakage parameters of LG components variably composed, loaded, restrained, and even exposed of ageing. Overall, the project will investigate the post-breakage response of various LG members representative of configurations of practical interest. These will include 3 major classes, such as (GC1) LG elements for balustrades, (GC2) windows / facades and (GC3) pedestrian systems, which are characterized by different cross-section parameters but especially load amplitude and time (i.e., crowd pressure for GC1, wind pressure / impact for GC2, walking paths for GC3).

The attention will focus on post-critical mechanical parameters. A novel holistic approach will be formulated on the base of experimental observations, with the support of Finite Element numerical simulations. The definition and reliability of non-destructive protocols to assess and quantify the residual stiffness and strength capacities of damaged LG components will be also explored. The use of anti-shatter films and fibre sensors will be addressed.