•    Project Number: 101046973    
•    Call identifier: Horizon-Eic-2021-Pathfinderopen-01    
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: Horizon-Eic    
•    Start date: 01/10/2022
•    Duration: 36
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 478.388,69 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department: Physics - Prof. Angelo Bassi
 

Abstract: QuCoM will explore the intricate interplay between quantum mechanics and gravity within a parameter range accessible for cost-effective table-top experiments. The project will achieve this by suspending sub millimetre-sized particles in carefully designed optical and magnetic traps. These suspended particles will then be used to detect gravitational forces in an unprecedented mass regime, opening new avenues in experimental physics. Additionally, QuCoM will investigate the fascinating realm of quantum superpositions, addressing scenarios where such masses are quantum mechanically delocalized in space. Supported by a substantial grant of 2.3 million Euros, the project is poised to address some of the most prominent theoretical proposals that combine quantum physics and gravity in nonstandard ways. By rigorously assessing the limits of validity of these proposals and further constraining the values of their parameters, QuCoM aims to make significant contributions to our understanding of the fundamental principles governing the universe.

•    Project Number: 101056940    
•    Call identifier: Horizon-Cl5-2021-D5-01    
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: Horizon-Ia
•    Start date: 01/06/2022    
•    Duration: 48    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 291.875,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Rodolfo Taccani 

Abstract: sHYpS aims at supporting the decarbonisation of the shipping industry, by leveraging on previous and on-going work and investment made by the consortium members. The project will develop a novel LH2 swappable storage solution, which can be adapted to multiple types of vessels and speed up achieving IMO’s target for 2030 and 2050.

Keywords: Hydrogen propulsion, Hydrogen supply, Shipping, IMO 2030, Decarbonisation, Ship propulsion, GHG reduction

•    Project Number: 101057961        
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-CL4-2021-RESILIENCE-01    
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-RIA
•    Start date: 01/09/2022        
•    Duration: 48    
•    End date: 01/09/2026    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 283.920,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary    
•    Department of Life Sciences– Prof. Bandiera Antonella    

Abstract: The STOP (Surface Transfer of Pathogens) research project seeks to develop a new generation of antimicrobial agents that can be deployed on surfaces to reduce the likelihood of bacteria or viruses being transmitted between people. This is particularly important for surfaces that are touched by many people (such as holds or buttons in public transport vehicles) or surfaces used by vulnerable populations (such as counter-tops in nursing homes).
This project is funded by the European Commission, together with Switzerland and the United Kingdom, and is being implemented by fifteen research institutes and companies. The project started in September 2022, and is expected to be completed by August 2026.
The project’s nanocoatings are expected to significantly reduce infections transmitted via high-touch surfaces and thus healthcare costs, and to provide alternative to currently used disinfectant materials such as quaternary ammonium salts (‘quats’).

Keywords: Peptide fixing, Nanostructuring, Photocatalysis, Epidemiological modelling

•    Project Number: 101059870    
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-WIDERA-2021-ACCESS-02    
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-CSA
•    Start date: 01/07/2022                
•    Duration: 36
•    End date: 01/07/2025    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 210.000,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary    
•    Department of Clinical University Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences – Prof. Gabriele Stocco

Abstract: Personalized medicine uses pharmacogenomics (PGX) to individualize therapy upon patients’ unique DNA profiles. With ~200,000 deaths/year in Europe due to adverse drug reactions, it has become an imperative to improve treatment. In Western Balkans (WB), individualization of therapy is done sporadically. IMGGE (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Serbia) is a pioneer in the PGX in WB. PharmGenHUB will strengthen IMGGE’s PGX R&I potential by exchanging knowledge between IMGGE and EU partnering institutions: University of Patras, Greece (UPAT), University of Ljubljana, Slovenia (UL), University of Trieste, Italy (UNITS). Through collaboration and knowledge sharing with 3 EU partners, IMGGE will become WB central place for PGX diagnostics and R&I, education and trainings, and translation of PGX knowledge into clinically applicable digital solutions. IMGGE’s research project, high-throughput DNA sequencing of WB populations, with support of UPAT and UL, will identify WB specific drug-PGX marker pairs and enable design of electronic tool for better decision-making in clinical practice, electronic PGX assistant for WB (ePGA-WB). iPSC model for validation of novel PGX markers relevant for Europe will be introduced at IMGGE with support of UNITS.
IMGGE will renew, reinforce and establish new connections through networking with WB institutions. Project will be realized through short-term visits of IMGGE staff to EU partner institutions, staff exchanges, on-site trainings, experimental laboratory work. Outreach activities will include PGX days, WB conference and joint summer schools. To strengthen research management capacities and administrative skills of IMGGE staff, a research management unit will be established with assistance from UPAT. As focal point of PGX translational research, IMGGE will impact on WB health-care cost benefits and facilitate WB integration to EU-PGX research area through R&I activities and digitalization.

Keywords: Pharmacogenomics, Population-specific markers, Western Balkan network, Digital assistant

•    Project Number: 101067977
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2021-PF-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF
•    Start date: 01/09/2022                        
•    Duration: 24
•    End date: 01/09/2024
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 172.750,08 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Physics – Prof. Federico Becca    

Abstract: The recent observation of many quantum correlated phases, including superconductivity and correlated insulating states, in twisted bilayers of 2D materials, has sparked tremendous interest and boosted intense research activity to understand these phases. The ability of robustly engineering quantum states of matter with few tunable experimental knobs, e.g. the twist angle between the two 2D materials, represents a major breakthrough of these so-called moiré materials, which started the new field of twistronics. In particular, moiré materials made from transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), have gained significant momentum as a novel and robust platform for simulating quantum phases of matter on emergent 2D lattices.
While it is widely accepted that these quantum phases are driven by enhanced electron-electron interactions in moiré materials, the quantum nature of many correlated phases is still poorly understood. Theoretical and computational first principles methods can be extremely powerful in helping to unravel the experimental signatures of the different quantum phases and also predict new ones. However, standard methods, like density functional theory, are computationally too costly for moiré systems (for which typical unit cells contain thousands of atoms) and generally unable to tackle the challenges posed by strongly correlated materials. A new approach is therefore required.
In this fellowship, I will develop an efficient multi-scale framework, involving different theoretical and computational methods, for studying quantum phases of TMDs moiré superlattices. Specifically, I will combine classical force field calculations, machine-learning based tight-binding methods and many-body methods to overcome the limitations of conventional first-principles approaches while maintaining their predictive power.
This framework will allow us to shed light on the nature of the quantum phases hosted in moiré materials, which can be harnessed in future technologies.

Keywords: 2D materials, Moiré superlattices, Tight-binding, Machine learning, Density functional theory

•    Project Number: 101066580
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2021-PF-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF
•    Start date: 01/07/2022                
•    Duration: 24
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 172.750,08 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Geosciences – Prof. Luca Ziberna

Abstract: Hg (mercury) is a toxic and highly volatile metal element. Because one of the two major sources of Hg in the atmosphere is volcanic degassing, its accumulation in sediments is used to link major Phanerozoic and Precambrian climatic changes to massive volcanic events. However, while the behavior of mercury in sedimentary systems is gaining interest and becoming well understood, the source of Hg in volcanic systems before degassing remains vague. Analytical challenges linked to this element, such as sample preparation and/or analyses, make such uncertainty even worse. Indeed, the few studies investigating Hg in magmatic systems appear to have unintentionally under or overestimated the concentration of Hg in magmatic rocks because of these unforeseen challenges.  
Project STECALMY seeks to investigate the source and mobility of Hg in the Earth’s crust by investigating the Sesia Magmatic System (SMS; Western Southern Alps, Italy), an exposed continental magmatic system that can be traced from its deepest roots to its volcanic products. Here we will design a rigorous sample preparation and analytical procedure to optimize Hg analyses in crystalline rocks. After, we will analyze Hg in carefully selected rocks of the SMS, from uncontaminated and undegassed magmatic rocks to metamorphic rocks in which they emplaced and to the volcanics erupted to the surface. For these magmas, Hg gain and loss during crustal assimilation, crystallization, and degassing in continental settings will be strengthened by combining petrography, elemental, and isotopic geochemistry. Project STECALMY will produce the first methodologically robust model on the source and mobility of Hg within a continental magmatic system.

Keywords: Mercury, Magmatism, Continental Crust, Sesia Magmatic System, Thermodynamic modelling

•    Project Number: 101073088
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2021-DN-01    
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-DN
•    Start date: 01/12/2022                            
•    Duration: 48    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 778.312,80 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Physics – Prof. Andrea Trombettoni      

Abstract: MAWI is a European Doctoral Network within the Marie Sklodowska Curie Action currently in the phase of recruiting PhD students with an interest in the topics of ultra cold atoms, matter waves, quantum sensings, and atomtronics.
The goal of the MAWI project is to train young researchers in the emerging fields of matter-wave interferometry and quantum sensors based on interferometric schemes. The striking progress in the manipulation of matter-waves at ultracold temperatures makes very realistic the possibility that a new generation of interferometers is implemented with ultracold atoms within a few years, with sensitivities and performances such to make them not only promising, but actually usable both in fundamental science and in technological applications. This progress is deeply related to the similarly remarkable advances in the field of atomtronics, a new field at the frontier of matter-wave optics seeking to realize atomic circuits in which ultracold atoms are manipulated in versatile optical or magnetic guides.

Keywords: Interferometry, Quantum technology and quantum devices, Metrology and measurement, Photonics applications

•    Project Number: 101079384
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-WIDERA-2021-ACCESS-03
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-CSA
•    Start date: 01/11/2022                    
•    Duration: 36    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 267.468,75 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Prof. Paolo Fornasiero    

Abstract: The use of fossil fuels has caused major energy supply, pollution, and global warming issues. Moving to green energy sources is a top priority. The EU Green Deal seeks carbon neutrality by finding efficient materials for energy production and securing critical raw materials.
Converting renewable energy and waste into green fuels using photo(electro)catalytic processes is crucial for sustainability, but current photo(electro)catalysts have limitations such as rapid charge recombination and low active sites.
Anchoring Earth-abundant single atom catalysts on the photo(electro)catalyst surface can overcome these issues, but accommodating these catalysts is a challenge.

The SAN4Fuel project brings together leading European institutions in photo(electro)catalysis for sustainable energy production, including the University of Trieste, FAU, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, and Palacký University Olomouc. With the help of SAN4Fuel, a new class of highly efficient photo(electro)catalysts will be developed using anchored and stabilized Earth-abundant catalysts.

Keywords: Photocatalysts, Single atom catalysis, Photocatalytic water splitting, CO2 reduction, Carbon based materials, Photoactive semiconductors, Hybrid nanostructures

•    Project Number: 101039578
•    Call identifier: ERC-2021-STG
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-ERC
•    Start date: 01/03/2023                     
•    Duration: 60
•    End date: 01/03/2028
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 1.978.963,00 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Prof. Gobbo Pierangelo

Abstract: Synthetic cells or protocells are chemically engineered to mimic properties and functions of living cells. As such, they can find several applications in biotechnology and medicine. The EU-funded PROTOMAT project will undertake a controlled assembly of protocell building blocks into forms of adaptive and self-regulating protocellular materials (PCMs) that integrate with living cells and target their mechanochemical sensory pathways. The project will address the engineering of PCMs with mechanical properties that mimic those of soft living tissues and of PCMs with rudimentary adaptive and self-regulating higher-order behaviours. Moreover, it will develop PCMs capable of interacting and integrating with living cells.

Keywords: Protocell, Prototissue, Biomimetic material, Protocellular material, Bottom-up synthetic biology, Enzyme cascade, Polymer network, Mechanical properties of soft materials, Tissue engineering

•    Project Number: 101096831
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-CL5-2022-D5-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-RIA
•    Start date: 01/02/2023                        
•    Duration: 36
•    End date: 01/02/2026    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 573.750,00 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Giorgio Sulligoi

Abstract: Energy storage technologies play a crucial role in ensuring the effective operation of renewable energy sources and promoting more economical and sustainable energy usage. The EU-funded V-ACCESS project aims to leverage its team’s extensive expertise in areas such as superconductive magnetic energy storage (SMES) systems, supercapacitors, shipboard power system design and control, and related technologies to enhance the readiness level of hybrid storage systems that integrate supercapacitors and/or SMES systems with batteries. The project will integrate these hybrid storage systems into a novel DC shipboard microgrid for efficient and adaptable power sharing control. The goal is to facilitate the commercialisation and scaling of these technologies.

Keywords: Supercapacitors, Superconducting magnetic energy storage, Shipboard power systems, Hazard identification and analysis, System integration

•    Project Number: 101099579
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-EIC-2022-PATHFINDEROPEN-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-EIC
•    Start date: 01/02/2023                
•    Duration: 60
•    End date: 01/02/2028    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 898.950,00 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Life Sciences - Prof. Lorenzo Cingolani 

Abstract: Neural circuits are pathways in the brain that transmit information and control various functions such as movement, sensation, and emotion. When these circuits become dysfunctional, it can lead to neurological disorders such as stroke and epilepsy. Funded by the European Innovation Council, the SynMech project aims to develop a new technology called ‘mechanogenetics’ that can regulate the functional connectivity of neural circuits using magnetic fields that can penetrate brain tissue. By using functionalised magnetic nanoparticles and bioengineered sensors, the team hopes to remotely control brain circuit activity in mouse models of stroke and epilepsy. This technology could provide a new approach to repairing connectivity defects in the brain without invasive surgery.

Keywords: Cell adhesion molecules, Extracellular matrix, Magnetic nanoparticles, Transcranial magnetic stimulation, Synaptic physiology

•    Project Number: 101080897
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-HLTH-2022-DISEASE-06-two-stage    
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-RIA
•    Start date: 01/06/2023                        
•    Duration: 60    
•    End date: 01/06/2028    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 399.765,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Clinical University Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences – Prof. Serena Zacchigna

Abstract: Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a subset of T lymphocytes with a key role in regulating the immune system by suppressing overactive immune responses and maintaining unresponsiveness to self-antigens. Tregs are emerging as clinical tools for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, with low doses of interleukin-2 (IL-2) being evaluated for their activation. Funded by the HORIZON programme, the TiilT project aims to develop third-generation IL-2 with improved properties. Researchers propose using antibodies against pro-inflammatory markers to target IL-2 to inflammation sites. This new formulation will be tested in preclinical models and optimised for use in cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction.

Keywords: Interleukin-2, Regulatory T cells, Oxidation specific epitopes, Inflammation, Cardiovascular diseases, Atherosclerosis, Myocardial infarction, Autoimmune diseases, Inflammatory diseases, SLE

•    Project Number: 101112306
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-KDT-JU-2022-2-RIA    
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-JU-RIA
•    Start date: 01/05/2023            
•    Duration: 36
•    End date: 01/05/2026    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 126.000,00 €    
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Davide Martino Raimondo

Abstract: In the heart of Europe’s bustling cities, transportation demands intensify. However, our current transportation systems are isolated, inflexible and far from sustainable. Traffic congestion and environmental concerns are an urban reality. In this context, the EU-funded C-EcoMobility project aims to transform European cities, facilitating a seamless transition to a service-centric, interconnected mobility ecosystem. By sharing data and services among key stakeholders, EcoMobility promises a sustainable solution to the current transportation conundrum, bolstering efficiency, safety, and environmental impact, with the ultimate goal of zero road fatalities by 2050. Additionally, the project aims to enhance public acceptance of electrified autonomous vehicles while bridging the gap between technological advancements and legal frameworks.

•    Project Number: 101111927
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2022-2
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-JU-IA
•    Start date: 01/09/2023                            
•    Duration: 72
•    End date: 01/09/2029    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 401.750,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Rodolfo Taccani

Abstract: The North Adriatic Hydrogen Valley – NAHV project builds on the LoI signed in March 2022 by representatives of the Slovenian Ministry of Infrastructure, Croatian Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development and Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) Autonomous Region in Italy, contributing to the European Green Deal and European Hydrogen Strategy goals.
The project’s high-level objective is the creation of a hydrogen-based economic, social and industrial ecosystem based on the capacity of the quadruple helix actors. This will drive economic growth, generating new job opportunities in the framework of both the green and digital transitions and, by creating the conditions for wider EU replicability, it will contribute to the creation of a European Hydrogen Economy,
To fulfil these objectives the NAHV project involves a well-rooted partnership of 36 organizations (of which 2 in Hydrogen Europe, 3 in Hydrogen Europe Research), covering the transnational Central European area of 3 territories - Slovenia, Croatia and FVG Region, demonstrating cross-border integration of hydrogen production, distribution and consumption, and exchange of over 20% of NAHV annual hydrogen production of over 5000 tons.
The project will activate 17 testbed applications in their related ecosystems, clustered in 3 main pillars - hard to abate, energy and transport sectors. These will act as real-life cases for piloting global hydrogen markets, moving from TRL 6 at the beginning to TRL 8 at the end of the project. Four fuel cell applications in the energy and transport sectors will be demonstrated. Testbeds will then be scaled up at industrial level as a replicable model, contributing to the decarbonisation of the 3 territories by harnessing renewables to improve system resilience, security of supply and energy independence. Replicability will also be ensured for the whole NAHV model, with the uptake of at least 5 additional hydrogen valleys in Europe, particularly in Central and South Eastern Europe.

Keywords: Hydrogen valley, Hydrogen production, Hydrogen consumption, Hydrogen storage, Cross, Border utilization

•    Project Number: 101112876
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MISS-2022-CLIMA-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-IA
•    Start date: 01/09/2023                            
•    Duration: 54
•    End date: 01/03/2028    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 200.000,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Marco Manzan    

Abstract: Mountains cover 30 % of the Earth's surface, and 17 % of the EU population resides in these areas. Mountains play a crucial role in providing resources and supporting communities, but they also face challenges due to climate change, exacerbated by a lack of adaptation responses. The EU-funded MountResilience project will support European regions and communities located in mountainous areas to increase their capacity to adapt to climate change and transition towards a climate-resilient society. Through the involvement of six regional demonstrators and four replicator regions, the project will conceptualise, test, and scale up multilevel, multidimensional, and reapplicable climate change adaptation and nature-based solutions. In this way, it will address policy and societal needs, as well as citizen behaviours, to assess specific climate impacts in mountainous regions.

Keywords: Sustainable mountain development, Social and technological innovation, Climate resilience, Societal engagement

•    Project Number: 101114789
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-SESAR-2022-DES-ER-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-JU-RIA
•    Start date: 01/09/2023        
•    Duration: 30
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 160.000,00 €        
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Lorenzo Castelli

Abstract: since the early days of aviation, barometric pressure measurements have been a simple and robust method for altimetry. However, it has some drawbacks including having no direct reference to terrain and vertical profile variabilities restricting capacity and flight efficiency. The project will investigate the environmental potential of geometric altimetry enabled by satellite navigation, to increase safety, support greener climb and descent operations, while also optimising capacity. At the same time, the project will investigate the potential of environmentally-driven route charging to incentivise airspace users to avoid volumes of airspace with a high climate impact and disincentivise flight planning through high demand sectors / flight altitudes.

Keywords: Satellite navigation, Energy management, Noise reduction, Modulation of charges, Algorithmic climate change functions

•    Project Number: 101114648
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-SESAR-2022-DES-ER-01            
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-JU-CSA
•    Start date: 01/06/2023        
•    Duration: 48
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 157.925,00 €        
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Lorenzo Castelli    

Abstract:  The SESAR 3 Joint Undertaking (S3JU) is a European partnership between private- and public-sector partners set up to accelerate the delivery of the Digital European Sky through research and innovation. The EU-funded Engage 2 project represents a bridge between academia and industry in the air traffic management (ATM) domain. Its mission is to support S3JU and contribute to the implementation of the SESAR Digital Academy (SDA) to empower the next-generation aviation workforce in the evolving digital economy. Engage 2 builds on the success of the Engage KTN platform. Drawing on lessons learned and adding new partners, the project aims to deliver cross-disciplinary knowledge and research to stimulate inputs from innovative, future scoping and unconventional research into the domain of ATM.

Keywords: KTN, Knowledge Transfer Network, wiki, SESAR Digital Academy, PhD, Catalyst funding

•    Project Number: 101120061
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2022-DN-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-DN-ID
•    Start date: 01/09/2023                            
•    Duration: 48    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 518.875,20 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Prof. Federico Berti

Abstract: New solutions, innovations and policies need to be implemented and integrated to achieve the goals of the European Green Deal, with a specific focus on technologies that promote circular economies for enhancing renewable energy sources and resource efficiency. The MSCA-funded GreenX3 project supports the attainment of these objectives by employing chemical tools to develop solutions for addressing current environmental challenges. To accomplish this, the project’s initial steps include the examination of environmentally friendly materials and an assessment of the impact of commonly used materials. Subsequently, the project will devise and implement innovative, eco-friendly industrial processes. Finally, it will explore strategies for introducing crucial enabling technologies aimed at enhancing quality and resource efficiency.

Keywords: Ecotoxicity, Green industrial processes, Alternative feedstocks, Advanced formulations, (nano)Pharmaceuticals, Drug delivery systems, Microbiology

•    Project Number: 101095012
•    Call identifier: ERC-2022-ADG
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-ERC
•    Start date: 01/11/2023            
•    Duration: 60    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 232.875,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Physics – Prof. Giovanin Comelli    

Abstract: The purpose of this proposal is to implement X-ray circular and helical dichroism to investigate the structure and chemical dynamics of molecular systems in solution. The proposal entails first establishing the concepts and observables of X-ray dichroism in steady-state studies both in the soft and hard X-ray ranges, and then implementing time-resolved X-ray circular and helical dichroism spectroscopies as probes of the chemical dynamics

Keywords: Chirality, X-rays, Circular dichroism, Helical dichroism, Molecular structure, Chemical dynamics, Liquid solutions, Time-resolved studies, Synchrotrons, X-ray Free electron lasers

•    Project Number: 101131106
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2022-SE-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-SE
•    Start date: 01/03/2024            
•    Duration: 48    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 161.000,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Prof. Federico Rosei 

Abstract: Addressing climate change is humanity’s greatest challenge in the 21st century. The European Green Deal has declared that Europe is committed to realizing a climate-neural society by 2050. To reduce carbon dioxide emissions from transport, power, and industry sectors, Europe must urgently change the energy paradigm, shifting to renewables. However, renewables are all intermittent, and facing the storage challenge. Secondary batteries offer highly efficient electrical energy storage capability, and become the key technology to achieve the large-scale application of solar/wind green energy and thus support the deep decarbonization of European energy system. European Commission estimated that the value of battery industry can reach €250 billion by 2025. Existing battery systems still suffer from low energy density and safety issues. There is huge gap between commercial batteries and advanced battery proposed by BATTERY2030+. Employing novel electrode materials are considered as promising strategies to develop next generation high performance batteries. However, these high capacity electrode materials raise significant challenges (dendrite, volume change, and degradation etc.) in practical application, which limit their commercialization prospects. LESIA will develop and construct bio-inspired surfaces/interfaces with electrochemical functionalities for the components of batteries using laser-based fabrication and emerging nanoscale characterisation techniques. LESIA will develop new surficial chemistry, and regulate the decisive electrochemical interfacial processes, and thus address the challenges of the high performance anodes and cathodes for next generation advanced batteries. LESIA will create new paradigm of advanced battery development by using cutting-edge laser-based surface/interface engineering technologies.

Keywords: Surfaces and interfaces, Laser fabrication, Micro nano metrology and characterization, Advanced batteries

•    Project Number: 101131549
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2022-SE-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-SE
•    Start date: 01/01/2024            
•    Duration: 48    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 46.000,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Mathematics, Computer Sciences and Geosciences – Prof. Luca Manzoni

Abstract: The ACANCOS project aims to lay the foundation for a solid, and internationally competitive research, which is deeply rooted in a context of numerous prior collaborations (but non structured in an unique network on a worldwide scale) on Automata Networks, Cellular Automata, and modelling of complex systems by these discrete models.
ACANCOS connects the scientific expertise and excellence of research groups from five countries, two of them outside EU, including experts from two distinct communities (AN and CA), from two distinct orientations (theory-oriented and application-oriented), and from three distinct disciplines (computer science, mathematics, and biomedicine).
The scientific objectives of the project are:
a) Increasing the knowledge on the relations among the architecture/properties of the underlying graph of AN and the dynamical properties of DTDS defined by AN;
b) Understanding the sensitivity/robustness of AN to (a)synchronism;
c) Understanding AN through the concept of intrinsic simulation, i.e. the capacity of instances of the computational model to simulate the dynamical behaviour of other instances of the same model;
d) Targeting and understanding wide classes of CA both exhibiting the complex behaviours of general CA and with decidable dynamical properties;
e) Designing efficient decision algorithms for the dynamical properties describing the dynamical behaviour of DTDS defined by the above mentioned classes of CA;
f) Understanding the complexity of the problems regarding the dynamics of DTDS defined by CA with both finite and infinite lattice.
g) AN for new conceptualisation and modelling of GRN: theoretical validations and applicative validations on real GRN;
h) New CA-based methods for data encryption;
Sharing knowledge among different cultural and scientific environments will be crucial to achieve the scientific objectives of the project. The partnership will be strengthened through summer schools and workshops.

Keywords: Automata networks, Cellular automata, Complex systems, Discrete time dynamical systems, Dynamical system modelling, Computational complexity

•    Project Number: 101107715
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2022-PF-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF
•    Start date: 01/10/2023             
•    Duration: 24    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 172.750,08 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Prof. Pierangelo Gobbo

Abstract: Protocells are self-assembled compartments formed by the aggregation of non-living components. They are an evolutionary intermediate between inorganic matter and living cells. Beyond their potential as models of evolution, they could also play roles in application areas including biomedicine, biofuels and environmental sciences. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the PROTO-BACT project plans to create tailor-made cyanobacteria-like protocells to use their capability for hydrogen production. The project aims to chemically program the ‘cells’ to self-assemble into the first autonomous and photosynthetic biofilm-like material. The resultant 3D architecture will enable photo-mechano-chemical transduction, leading to autonomous, self-regulating behaviour, including the production of hydrogen and formaldehyde from visible light, water and methanol.

Keywords: Self-regulation, Photoactuators, Soft robotics

•    Project Number: 101137324
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-CL4-2023-RESILIENCE-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-RIA
•    Start date: 01/01/2024            
•    Duration: 48    
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 248.691,25 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Engineering and Architecture – Prof. Erik Laurini

Abstract: Innovations in advanced materials (AdMa) promise breakthroughs, yet navigating their impacts presents a labyrinth of challenges. Traditional assessment methods struggle to capture the multifaceted consequences on health, environment, and society. Stakeholders lack unified frameworks to guide decision-making across AdMa’s lifecycle, hindering sustainable development. In this context, the EU-funded SUNRISE project will address these complexities and support informed decision-making. Its three-tiered approach, supported by a toolbox, caters to diverse user needs, from industry to civil society. Through a collaborative process, SUNRISE ensures stakeholder involvement, balancing perspectives. Leveraging innovative methodologies and accessible via an Open & FAIR web platform, its integrated impact assessment framework will inform decision-making and support policy implementation.

Keywords: Safe and Sustainable by Design, Advanced materials, Integrated impact assessment, Health impacts, Environmental impacts, Socioeconomic impacts, Stakeholder trade-offs, New Approach Methodologies

•    Project Number: 101130717
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-EIC-2023-PATHFINDEROPEN-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-EIC
•    Start date: 01/03/2024        
•    Duration: 42
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 578.750,00 €
•    Role: Beneficiary
•    Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences – prof. Paolo Fornasiero

Abstract: Mounting energy demand and fossil fuel depletion threaten global energy security and the environment. To mitigate this, the EU targets climate neutrality by 2050, relying on next-generation biofuels from non-land, non-food bio-wastes. However, challenges in bio-ethanol reforming hinder the production of advanced biofuels like butanol and hydrogen. In this context, the EIC-funded GlaS-A-Fuels project focuses on transforming bio-ethanol into advanced biofuels like butanol and hydrogen, overcoming challenges of low yields and selectivity. Their innovative approach involves light-trapping photonic glass reactors powered by thermoelectric modules, enhancing the efficiency of photo-amplified single-atom catalysts. With expertise in materials science, catalysis, and laser technologies, GlaS-A-Fuels aims to pioneer sustainable solutions for future energy needs.

Keywords: Biofuels production, Green hydrogen, Photonic glass reactor, Light-trapping micro-patterns, Luminescent, Perovskites, Thermoelectric module, Photocatalytic processes, Single atom catalysis

•    Project Number: 101158607
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-WIDERA-2023-ACCESS-06
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-RIA
•    Start date: 01/02/2023
•    Duration: 48
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 49.587,00 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Life Sciences – Prof. Lorenzo Cingolani

Abstract: Neural circuits are pathways in the brain that transmit information and control various functions such as movement, sensation, and emotion. When these circuits become dysfunctional, it can lead to neurological disorders such as stroke and epilepsy. Funded by the European Innovation Council, the SynMech project aims to develop a new technology called ‘mechanogenetics’ that can regulate the functional connectivity of neural circuits using magnetic fields that can penetrate brain tissue. By using functionalised magnetic nanoparticles and bioengineered sensors, the team hopes to remotely control brain circuit activity in mouse models of stroke and epilepsy. This technology could provide a new approach to repairing connectivity defects in the brain without invasive surgery.

Keywords: Cell adhesion molecules, Extracellular matrix, Magnetic nanoparticles, Transcranial magnetic stimulation, Synaptic physiology

•    Project Number: 101150889
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2023-PF-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF
•    Start date: 19/02/2025
•    Duration: 24 
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 172.750,08 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Physics – Prof. Angelo Bassi

Abstract: Quantum mechanics poses a challenge known as the measurement problem, which complicates understanding of how particles behave. Spontaneous collapse theories, like Ghirardi-Rimini-Weber (GRW) and continuous spontaneous localisation (CSL), aim to resolve this by slightly altering quantum dynamics. These modifications are negligible for microscopic systems but very impactful in macroscopic ones. While the GRW model associates spontaneouscollapses to particles, CSL introduces randomness through fundamental noise disturbing the Schrödinger dynamics of fields. Despite their promise, these models are not yet compatible with special relativity. Funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the CPQM project aims to develop a new model where collapses are related to spacetime itself, potentially leading to a significant breakthrough in understanding the foundations of physics.

Keywords: Spontaneous Collapse Models, Relativistic Spontaneous Collapse Models, Foundations of Physics, Measurement Problem, Born's Rule, Wavefunction Collapse

•    Project Number: 101151302
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-MSCA-2023-PF-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF
•    Start date: 01/04/2025
•    Duration: 24 
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 172.750,08 €
•    Role: Coordinator
•    Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Prof. Silvia Marchesan

Abstract: Cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic heart disease, are the leading cause of death in Europe. Cardiac tissue that has been lost by injury cannot be naturally regenerated, which leads to heart failure. To help repair heart, biomaterials-driven approaches, especially hydrogels in combination with carbon nanotubes (CNTs), are among the most promising strategies. However, existing CNT- based hydrogels provide a simplistic reflection of structural and functional features of the native cardiac tissue. A solution lies in mimicking the native tissue from multiple angles: bioadhesion, viscoelasticity, mechanical properties, electroconductivity, 3D supramolecular and hierarchically ordered fibrous structure.
SupraBioElectris aims to develop novel supramolecular biomimetic and electroconductive nanocomposite hydrogels by exploiting the concept of branching, widely occurring in nature. The key players in this project are thus branched CNTs and supramolecular, biomimetic short peptides-based hydrogels. The union of these contrasting components constitutes an innovative approach, making use of their strengths to reach the required multi-faceted biomimicry. The hypothesis is that the combination of these components will create smart and multifunctional biomaterials, able to boost and support electrical activity of cardiomyocytes and thus aid in heart repair. Furthermore, advanced, state-of-the-art material characterization tools will be used to study nanocomposites with nanoscale spatial resolution, ensuring optimal material design and function.
SupraBioElectris project therefore addresses one of the major health challenges and will highlight the importance of using supramolecular structures in the design of biomimetic materials. The project is highly interdisciplinary and international. It will also shape the researcher into a leading expert in hydrogels, by expanding his existing expertise via tailored training and acquisition of new skills.

•    Project Number: 101188365
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-INFRA-2024-DEV-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-RIA
•    Start date: 01/12/2024
•    Duration: 36
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 25.000,00 €
•    Role: BENEFICIARY
•    Department of Mathematics, Computer Sciences and Geosciences – Prof. Giovanni Costa

Abstract: Near fault observatories (NFOs) are essential for conducting advanced research in regions that are geophysically active or complex, often located near densely populated urban areas. These observatories provide valuable insights into earthquakes and seismogenic faults. The European Plate Observing System has identified six NFOs in Europe as prime locations for long-term monitoring and research. The EU-funded TRANSFORM2 project aims to enhance these existing NFOs by integrating novel methodologies and cutting-edge technologies. These improvements will include advanced sensors, enhanced detectability, and early warning systems, alongside testing platforms for future innovations. Additionally, the project will explore the integration of machine learning and fibre optic cable sensing solutions to further improve fault monitoring and prediction capabilities.

Keywords: Near Fault Observatory, Seismicity, Earthquakes, Faulting, Solid earth, Early warning, Test-bed, Machine learning

•    Project Number: 101186013
•    Call identifier: HORIZON-EIC-2024-PATHFINDEROPEN-01
•    Funding scheme or Type of action: HORIZON-EIC
•    Start date: 01/02/2025
•    Duration: 48
•    EU Contribution for UniTs: 333.298,75 €
•    Role: Beneficiary 
•    Department of Life Sciences – Prof. Alberto Pallavicini

Abstract: Viruses cannot replicate on their own. Outside host cells, they exist as genetic material encapsulated in a protein shell. To replicate, they inject their genetic material into a host cell and hijack its protein synthesis to enable translation of viral mRNA on host ribosomal RNA. Revealing these mechanisms has been challenging. Funded by the European Innovation Council, the VirHoX project aims to address this with an innovative approach for virus-host pairing called VirHo-seq. VirHo-seq involves ligating host ribosomal RNA with viral mRNA during translation via engineered enzymes and identifying virus-host pairings through high-throughput sequencing. It will support the study of emerging pathogens, ecological shifts and climate challenges via universal virus-host mapping tool.

Keywords: Virus-host associations, Environmental viromics, Ribosomes, mRNA-rRNA ligations, Recombinant proteins, Protein engineering