Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-actions-marie-curie-participations-et-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
Projet 3D-Carbon (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2022)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Information Science and Engineering
Statut du projet : CLOSED

3D printing of carbon materials has significantly impacted several research fields, including energy, electronics, transport, health, and space. Particularly in tissue engineering applications, it promises the fabrication of patient-specific personalized scaffolds, offering a suitable combination of essential properties. However, several challenges remain in the marriage of 3D printing and carbon materials. Two of the current challenges are little control in the properties of 3D printed pyrolytic carbon (3DPyC) and the complex fabrication process of 3D graphitized carbon (3DGC). Therefore, even though preliminary studies show good cytocompatibility of 3DPyC and 3DGC, a proper investigation of the cell-carbon interaction, essential for tissue engineering applications, cannot be reliably performed. The 3D-Carbon project aims to solve these two challenges by developing a pathway to reliably control the micro and macro-structural properties of 3DPyC and introducing a facile fabrication approach for 3DGC. These will be achieved through synthesizing customizable functionalized green precursor materials suitable for stereolithographic 3D printing and controlled pyrolysis. Cell culturing within 3D printed carbon scaffolds with controlled properties will further allow us to have a better understanding of the cell-carbon interaction, which could, therefore, lastingly impact innovation on carbon scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. Furthermore, such a study will lead us to the future development of carbon-based engineered living materials.

Mots clés : carbon, 3d printing, pyrolysis

Participants :
- Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 181152.96 €
Projet TomoFind (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) revolutionises cellular structure visualisation, but extracting biological insights is often hindered by limitations of subtomogram averaging (STA). With AlphaFold2's recent breakthroughs in structure prediction, identifying known structures in their 3D cellular context is often more important than structure determination by STA. The TomoFind project aims to significantly improve our ability to identify biomolecular structures within tomographic reconstructions.  This goal will be pursued through three interconnected approaches: 1) Developing deep learning tools for rapid and comprehensive identification of known structures in tomograms; 2) Refining data acquisition parameters via mathematical modelling and computational optimisation; and 3) Enhancing reconstruction algorithms to fully leverage advancements from 1) and 2). This highly interdisciplinary project combines applied mathematics, machine learning, and structural biology, and close collaboration between computational and experimental groups ensures practical applicability and maximises chances of success.  TomoFind will advance cryo-ET analysis capabilities, enabling investigation of cellular structures and processes at unprecedented resolution and scale. The resulting open-source software will lead to high impact across structural and cell biology research communities.  The host institution's world-class technical expertise and state-of-the-art facilities provide an ideal environment for this project. This, combined with the applicant's interdisciplinary background spanning applied mathematics, data science, and computational imaging, forms a strong foundation, crucial for the success of TomoFind. The project will enhance the applicant's skills and network, boosting future prospects for prestigious European research positions. The host institute will also benefit from the project's outcomes, advancing its research capabilities in cryo-ET and structural biology.

Mots clés : cryo et, cryo em, inverse problems, mathematical optimisation, geometric deep learning

Participants :
- UK Research and Innovation (Royaume-Uni) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 260347.92 €
Projet THE-BET (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2023)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Human actions are complex processes that require the coordination of numerous brain areas responsible for sensorimotor prediction, sensory integration, action planning, decision-making, movement execution, and performance evaluation. Various neural oscillations in different frequency bands, including delta, theta, alpha/mu, beta, and gamma, have been identified as markers of these processes. However, their precise functional significance, interrelationships, and specificity remain poorly understood. This proposal is dedicated to investigating the neural mechanisms involved in action execution and monitoring, with a specific focus on the roles of frontal midline theta and sensorimotor beta activity. The primary objective is to unravel the relationships between these neural activities and their contributions to the performance of goal-oriented actions. To achieve this, I will record a new high-density MEG dataset with participants performing a large number of trials involving conflict-inducing tasks. The proposal is centered around three 3 sub-projects (SPs). Sub-Project 1 (SP1) focuses on unraveling the functional specificity of frontal theta(s) in goal-related actions. The main hypothesis of SP1 is that conflict-related, error-related, and monitoring-related theta activity exhibits different temporal dynamics (e.g., burst vs. sustained oscillation) and originates from distinct neural sources. Sub-Project 2 (SP2) will investigate the functional connectivity between theta(s) and beta activity during action execution. Beta activity in individual trials occurs in brief, sporadic bursts, rather than in sustained oscillations. SP2 will explore long-range directed connectivity measures between action-monitoring areas and M1 during motor execution, considering the burst-like nature of beta and theta. Sub-Project 3 (SP3) will combine results from SP1 and SP2 and focus on neuro-behavioural joint modeling of conflict and error processing using Drift Diffusion Models.

Mots clés : meg, neural oscillations, action, action monitoring, performance monitoring system, theta, beta bursts

Participants :
- Centre national de la recherche scientifique (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 211754.88 €
Projet B-FHAB (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2021)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Chemistry
Statut du projet : CLOSED

The introduction of agrochemicals has drastically improved crop yields, largely thanks to the use of herbicides that kill crop competing weeds. Unfortunately, herbicides residues often find their way into our ecosystems, drinking water and food. Current means to monitor herbicide residues utilize expensive, time-consuming methodologies such as liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectroscopy, a technique typically restricted to First world countries and trained users. A biosensor provides a means for rapid, low-cost, sensitive herbicide detection that is widely accessible even in developing countries. I have previously evaluated a biosensing platform using an electrode coated with bacterial reaction centres, but found that it was not sensitive enough to meet EU drinking water standards, was limited to sensing a small class of herbicide residues and was not stable enough under storage for widespread distribution. To tackle the issue of low stability, I implemented a redox polymer transduction matrix, resulting in biosensor stability for hours during operation and months in storage. I then approached the most challenging aspect of boosting biosensor sensitivity by re-designing the biological recognition element itself, using docking simulations to guide enzyme design that resulted in validated improvements in biosensor sensitivity in the lab. This forms the platform for my research within the MSCA Postdoctoral fellowship, wherein I seek to push enzyme-herbicide binding affinities to reach a biosensor sensitivity that meets EU standards, expand the scope of sensing beyond a small class of residues, and sense not just single but multiple herbicide residues on a single test strip. The results of this work will lead to a herbicide biosensor that approaches market viability, and lays the groundwork for a modular biosensing platform that can be extended beyond herbicides, to include biomarkers for monitoring health and detecting disease.

Mots clés : computer aided rational design of enzymes

Participants :
- Université de Rome III (Italie) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université de Bristol (Royaume-Uni) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université technique de Munich (Allemagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 173847.36 €
Projet HotElecTEM (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2022)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Chemistry
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Noble metal nanoparticles (Au, Ag, Cu) show unique optical properties called localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) when interacts with external electromagnetic (EM) waves in the UV-Vis-NIR region. Surface conduction electron of these nanomaterials can gain a huge amount of energy from the decay of the LSPR (Hot electrons) and can drive chemical reaction at the nanoparticle surface. Various metal-semiconductor combinations were observed to generate hot electron, but their catalytic efficiency is very low due to the presence of the Schottky barrier at the interfaces. Plasmonic metal-catalytic metal combination is a major breakthrough in this aspect and was observed to show very good catalytic efficiency contributed by hot electrons. However, they suffer from major structural instability during the reaction condition. Which is inherent in the conventional 3H-hexagonal closed-packed (HCP) structures of these plasmonic nanostructures. Unconventional plasmonic nanostructures of 4H/2H-HCP configuration is considered to have higher mechanical and structural stability compared to the conventional one. In this project, we will look into the hot-electron generation and transfer mechanism of novel bi-metallic unconventional Au nanotriangle (AuNT)@Pd and AuNT@graphene antenna@reactor system in nanoscale spatial resolution experimentally using electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) in aberration-corrected transmission electron microscope (Ac-TEM) and theoretically using time-dependent density functional theory approach. Besides TEM, the nanostructures will be characterized using other high end characterization tools to investigate their structural, optical and chemical properties. Stability of the nanostructures during reaction condition will be studied extensively using dynamical in-situ heating/cooling and biasing holder in an Ac-TEM. These studies will of extreme important to develop next generation photocatalytic materials to replace the conventional fossil-fuels.

Mots clés : electronic properties of materials, surfaces, interfaces, nanostructures, etc, nanophysics nanoelectronics, nanophotonics, nanomagnetism, nanoelectromechanics, etc, photocatalysis

Participants :
- Société Max-Planck pour le développement des sciences (Allemagne) — Partner, associated partner, Recherche, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université de Saragosse (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 181152.96 €
Projet MODULARIZATION (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Information Science and Engineering
Statut du projet : SIGNED

The construction industry is at a crossroads where the demand for sustainable and efficient building methods is rapidly increasing. Low-rise prefabricated volumetric modular steel (PFVMS) structures effectively handle vertical and lateral loads through inter-modular connections (IMCs). However, high-rise PFVMS structures face limitations due to their reliance on concrete core structures for lateral load resistance, highlighting a gap in connecting modular units with concrete core tubes while maintaining the sustainable nature of PFVMS structures. MODULARIZATION addresses this gap by advancing PFVMS construction through sustainability principles, circular economy, and artificial intelligence. While PFVMS buildings are recognized for their efficiency, existing assembly methods struggle with structural stability, sustainability, flexibility, and waste management challenges. MODULARIZATION proposes a groundbreaking, fully bolted, size-flexible connection system that allows for disassembly and reuse, thereby reducing the need for on-site welding and minimizing construction waste. MODULARIZATION includes experimental studies and finite element simulations to investigate the load transfer mechanisms, seismic performance, and failure modes of modular connections. Advanced artificial intelligence techniques, including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), will be employed for enhanced data analysis and parametric research. Additionally, Cellular Automata (CA) and Genetic Algorithms (GA) will be used to develop a comprehensive model addressing material and geometric nonlinearities, resulting in accurate design methodologies for the connection's bearing capacity and stiffness. MODULARIZATION is intended to contribute to the circular economy substantially, sustainability in the construction industry, and revolutionize modular construction practices.

Mots clés : prefabricated volumetric modular steel structures, reusable module core connections, structural testing, advanced computational analysis, ai driven optimization design, circular economy

Participants :
- City University (Royaume-Uni) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 260347.92 €
Projet VerSi (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2021)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Physics
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Are there new fundamental particles and interactions Beyond the Standard Model of particle physics (BSM)? The most fascinating open questions in our current understanding of Nature support a positive answer. For example, the dark matter in our universe could be explained by new fundamental particles weakly coupled to the SM. Similarly, the unexplained Charge-Parity symmetry violation in strong interactions can be solved by introducing a new light particle, the axion. Some recent, intriguing anomalies in cosmic radiation have thrilled the community as potential evidence for new physics BSM. My project will shed new light on them by exploiting forthcoming observations of the very high energy sky with innovative techniques. A long-standing excess of gamma-rays at GeV energies is measured towards the Galactic Center (GCE), and could be the very first signature of particle dark matter in our Galaxy. Cosmic ray accelerators could also explain the signal, but numerous modeling uncertainties prevent to firmly assess their contribution to the excess. I will use gamma rays at TeV energies to robustly characterise the TeV halos of cosmic ray accelerators and their contribution to the GCE, thus closing on the dark matter properties compatible with it. Besides, these sources will serve as an unique laboratory to constrain cosmic ray acceleration and propagation in the interstellar medium. This work will be instrumental to deeply investigate a new, promising signatures of photon-axion interactions, that is the modulation of the gamma-ray spectrum of Galactic cosmic ray accelerators. By exploiting the unprecedented energy resolution of forthcoming gamma-ray data at very high energy, I will search for axion-like-particle signatures in a yet unexplored parameter space. At LAPTh I will have access to the crucial expertise needed to successfully carry out the designed project, which will strategically complement my current research profile to flourish as a senior researcher.

Mots clés : astroparticle physics, particle phenomenology, beyond standard model, axion like particles, gamma ray astrophysics

Participants :
- Centre national de la recherche scientifique (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 195914.88 €
Projet PorphIRON (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2023)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Chemistry
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a pivotal role in early diagnosis and therapy follow-up of many diseases. The substitution of current Gd-based MRI contrast agents (CA), which raise both safety and environmental concerns, is one of today’s most important challenges in imaging-related chemistry. High complex stabilities and inertness attainable with Fe(III) make it a high potential alternative to Gd. Porphyrins have met great clinical success, exhibit biocompatibility, stable metal complexes and easy structural modulation., but formation of μ-oxo-dimers in Fe(III) porphyrins (FePo) reduces their relaxation efficacy. PorphIRON will tackle these limitations and develop new families of biocompatible FePo fine-tuned for MRI use. PorphIRON will focus on structural optimization to i) maintain the oxidation and the high spin state of Fe(III), yielding relaxation effect comparable to clinical CA, and ii) adjust physicochemical properties to preserve biocompatibility. To achieve this, PorphIRON will rely on a synergic combination of the ER’s experience in porphyrin chemistry and computational studies with that of the supervisor in MRI CA development, and an iterative approach with: i) initial synthesis of newly designed FePo, followed by their physicochemical and biological evaluation; ii) computational rationalization of the experimental results and prediction of new optimized structures; iii) second-round optimized FePo synthesis and characterization. PorphIRON will deliver fully characterized, stable, biocompatible and high efficacy FePos with preliminary preclinical in vivo MRI validation, thereby actively contributing to the implementation of next-generation non-toxic CA in clinic. PorphIRON will strengthen ER’s experience in organic synthesis, computational chemistry, while significantly expanding his knowledge to CA development and preclinical MRI. It will expand his career perspectives and open new opportunities in the emerging field of theragnostics.

Mots clés : mri, fe iii porphyrins, contrast agents

Participants :
- Centre national de la recherche scientifique (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 195914.88 €
Projet QTF-Ataulfo (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Physics
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Quantum information science has reshaped our understanding of the universe by framing the fundamental laws of nature in terms of the evolution of information. This field has provided powerful mathematical tools to address open questions in physics while opening the door to novel technologies without classical counterparts. However, the current prototype devices at the forefront of technological advances are still far from the promised fully programmable universal quantum simulators. These current machines, known as Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) devices, are constrained by their susceptibility to errors, limited scalability, and, more importantly, the incomplete understanding of the underlying physics in multi-partite quantum systems.  This research proposal aims to tackle a fascinating challenge: developing a theoretical thermodynamic framework to gain insights into error correction and mitigation in complex quantum systems, while addressing open questions from a thermodynamic perspective. Additionally, this project seeks to bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical implementation. In this project, I will develop novel quantum error correction (QEC) approaches that optimize both information retention and energy efficiency, focusing on three key objectives:  (1) Quantum Error Correction as a Thermodynamic Process: Reimagining QEC as a thermodynamic process through entropy management and cooling mechanisms, such as algorithmic cooling, to gain insights into fundamental questions and develop QEC codes optimized for resilience and energy efficiency. (2) Thermodynamic Understanding of Fault-Tolerant Thresholds: Integrating thermodynamic principles to understand the limitations of achieving more robust quantum protocols based on available resources. (3) Impact of Imperfect Timekeeping on QEC and Energy Costs: Investigating how imperfect timekeeping affects QEC performance, with a focus on reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency.

Mots clés : quantum information processing, quantum thermodynamics, quantum implementations, algorithmic cooling, quantum engines and refrigerators, quantum error correction, error mitigation, nisq devices

Participants :
- Université technique de Vienne (Autriche) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 214344.72 €
Projet RENOS (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Information Science and Engineering
Statut du projet : SIGNED

The current increase in popularity of smartphones, Internet of Things devices, as well as wearable devices, has brought with it an increasing interest in ubiquitous services based on cloud computing. These devices connect to the Internet to reach the cloud data centres, which host services that these devices could not execute by themselves. Furthermore, research is currently focused on complimenting cloud computing with the "Computing Continuum" paradigm, where computations are distributed, not only through cloud data centres, but also through other devices increasingly closer to users. The Computing Continuum offers promising improvements in terms of performance compared to traditional cloud computing, enabling new paradigms such as Industry 4.0 or eHealth. However, traditional cloud data centres, as well as the ubiquitous access to them through the Internet, consume up to 460 TWh of energy per year, and are responsible for 0.9% of the total energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. Hence, an approach to the Computing Continuum based on simply placing more servers closer to users, continuously powered on, can further increase the already large carbon footprint of the cloud paradigm. Therefore, to enable for a sustainable and performant future for computing, the management of the Computing Continuum is key. To provide a key enabler for this situation, we propose Renos, a system able to continuously adapt, optimize and orchestrate both the Computing Continuum's devices and the applications that run on them, aimed at achieving more sustainable and performant computing services and infrastructures. Renos is envisioned as an artificial intelligence-based system to be used by Computing Continuum providers, and integrated into industry-ready orchestrators. The Renos project is not only an innovative and ambitious project that can make the European Computing Continuum more competitive, it is also in line with the MSCA Green Charter, the European Green Deal, and the EU SDGs.

Mots clés : sustainability, computing continuum, orchestration, adaptation, performance, artificial intelligence, software engineering

Participants :
- Université technique de Vienne (Autriche) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 214344.72 €