Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-actions-marie-curie-participations-et-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
Projet EchoBug (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2020)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : SIGNED

In the arms race between prey and predators, diverse anti-predator defence mechanisms evolved. To avoid predation, many insects developed camouflage (crypsis) or chemicals that render them distasteful or toxic. To warn of their unpalatability, many insects evolved striking warning colours or patterns (aposematism). Insects comprise most of the diet of bats. Some of these nocturnal predators glean resting, silent, motionless diurnal insects from the vegetation. Instead of using vision during foraging, they produce ultrasonic calls and detect their prey through echolocation. Here, I want to research whether visually cryptic or aposematic insects also have cryptic or aposematic acoustic reflection properties, to hide from or signal their unpalatability to echolocating bats. I will use bio-inspired sensor systems to acquire echo-acoustic sonar recordings of selected insect species and conduct behavioural prey-detection and -capture experiments using live bats to explore the prevailing acoustic predator-prey interactions. Based on these experiments, I will apply neural network algorithms for classifying and analysing the distinguishing features in different insect echoes. This approach will allow an in-depth investigation of the underlying acoustic mechanisms of the interaction between prey and predators and will inform and inspire biomimetic applications for detecting and identifying objects by sonar. Further, the project will lead to synergism between the research fields of biology and engineering in the study of animal interactions and bio-inspired robotics. Combining sensory ecology and animal behaviour with applied engineering, signal processing, bio-inspired sensor systems, and neural network applications, will positively impact on my career development. In addition, the scientific training, and transferable skills gained will substantially contribute to my career as an independent, interdisciplinary researcher, and a successful group leader.

Mots clés : bioacoustics, sensory ecology, predator prey interactions, insects, bats, deep learning

Participants :
- University of Antwerp (Belgique) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 166320.0 €
Projet SLICE (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2020)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Information Science and Engineering
Statut du projet : SIGNED

In the context of high-efficiency solar cells based on crystalline silicon (c-Si), the integration of passivating contacts between the metal electrodes and the c-Si substrate has been identified as the next step to further improve the photovoltaic conversion efficiency. Passivating contacts consisting in a highly-doped poly-crystalline silicon (poly-Si) layer on top of a thin layer of silicon oxide (SiOx) offer the most promising approach to bridge the gap between device efficiencies in R&D and those in production. However, their development has mainly proceeded through “trial and error” so far, resulting in a limited understanding of their underlying working principle. More specifically, the surface passivation provided by poly-Si contacts is a combination of different mechanisms, among which the limiting one is still unclear due to: i) the interplay between these different mechanisms and ii) the challenge of characterizing thin-film stacks with features to the nanometric scale. Moreover, p-type poly-Si contacts, which are of prime interest since they could provide an alternative to the conventional contact at the rear side of mainstream p-type c-Si solar cells, have so far demonstrated lower passivation properties than their n-type counterparts, the fundamental reason for this difference remaining unclear. Within the SLICE project, a dedicated methodology based on lifetime spectroscopy scpecially adapted to the c-Si surface will be applied to identify electrically active defects limiting the lifetime of charge carriers at the interface between poly-Si contacts and the c-Si. The investigation of different passivating thin-film stacks of iterative complexity will enable to relate their properties to their fabrication process. The insights gained from this original characterization of interfacial defects will support the fabrication of better passivating poly-Si contacts and ultimately solar cells with higher efficiency.

Mots clés : c si solar cell, passivating contacts, lifetime spectroscopy

Participants :
- Board of the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology (Suisse) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 191149.44 €
Projet STOPCa (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2016)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the developed countries, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-associated death in men, with a predicted rate of 10.9/100.000 men in Europe in 2016. Mortality results when prostate cancer has spread to other organs (metastasis, particularly to the bone). Prostate cancer prognosis and follow-up is mainly performed with routine blood test (prostate specific antigen levels). However, the low/high risk of metastasis for individual patients cannot always be accurately assessed due to tumor heterogeneity and differential rate of tumor progression. Thus, a more thorough understanding of the metastatic processes is needed. Complex molecular interactions and cellular processes between the cancer (stem) cells and the surrounding tissue microenvironment (supportive stroma) are required for tumor growth and metastasis. Cancer cells hijack the normal microenvironment to orchestrate metastatic events and acquisition of resistance to drug treatments. To increase our understanding of the metastatic mechanisms we sought to identify and modulate the molecular properties of aggressive tumor cells and the reciprocal supportive stroma in unique xenograft models and eventually assess the prognostic value of the identified parameters. We propose to investigate the following objectives: 1) identify the molecular signature of tumor and supportive stroma in metastatic patient-derived xenografts 2) elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the tumor- supportive stroma 3) determine their prognostic value in clinical blood samples as predictors of disease progression and metastasis risk. Understanding the mechanisms of prostate cancer (re)initiation will provide the foundation for proper prognostic tool development for the identification of high risk patient groups.

Mots clés : prostate  tumor microenvironment  transcriptomics  patient derived xenografts  metastasis  tissue compartment transcriptional profiling

Participants :
- University of Bern (Suisse) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 175419.6 €
Projet Leucophyl (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2014)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Chemistry
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the frame of this research program, carried out at the Institute of Molecular Sciences (ISM) at the University of Bordeaux (UB), we propose a strategy directed towards the first total synthesis of leucophyllidine, a cytotoxic alkaloid recently isolated from L. griffithii. From the retrosynthetic analysis of the target, two fragments where identified that will be prepared then connected in the last stage of the synthesis, following a biomimetic approach. The “North-fragment” will be synthesized relying on a coupling between a key-aldehyde moiety and tryptamine through a Pictet-Spengler reaction/lactamization cascade. The “South-fragment” will be elaborated using a Friedländer-type condensation between a piperidinone, and an ortho-aminobenzonitrile. The key-aldehyde and the piperidinone will be elaborated using a unified strategy, including a novel stereoselective free-radical carbo-oximation process, which will install quaternary centers present in North and South fragments. Incorporation of the vinyl motif on the naphthyridine ring, through a Suzuki coupling, should complete the synthesis of the south-fragment. Both fragments will finally be connected, following a biomimetic Mannich-type strategy, which should provide sufficient quantities of this potent anticancer agent and analogues for future biological screening. Key objectives of this research program are the development of an access to new plant anticancer drugs for potential clinical use and the training of future leading experts in the field of natural product–derived drugs discovery, a domain in which Europe must remain competitive in the 21st century as cancer-related diseases are rapidly increasing with population’s life expectancy.

Mots clés : total synthesis of natural products, biomimetic synthesis, radical chemistry, asymmetric synthesis

Participants :
- Université de Bordeaux (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 185076.0 €
Projet SILYCAT (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2015)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Chemistry
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the frame of this research program, carried out at the Institute of Molecular Sciences (ISM) within the University of Bordeaux (UB), we propose the development of new powerful Lewis acid catalysts for asymmetric synthesis. The activation of small molecules (H2, CO2) and less-reactive compounds in catalytic processes is one of the central tasks of modern synthetic chemistry. This task is of fundamental and practical interest as well as of environmental significance, a central issue for our society. Purpose of the suggested research proposal is the synthesis of tailor-made chiral silyl cationic compounds with exceptional but controlled reactivity. Various molecular test systems are suggested to identify the parameters that allow efficient control over the reactivity of these silyl cations. These model systems will be applied as catalysts in organic model reactions including Diels-Alder, Mukaiyama and hydrogenation processes. The major objective of this proposal is the generation and studies of chiral silyl cations and their weakly coordinating anions in an effort to combine their inherent high reactivity with enantioselective processes. The use of chiral silyl cations as efficient Lewis acid catalysts in organic transformations should have significant impact on enantioselective organic synthesis. Key objectives of this research program are the development of new strong activators for an efficient synthesis of chiral molecules and the training of future leading experts in the field of catalysis, a domain in which Europe must remain competitive in the 21st century as the demand for new chiral molecules and materials is increasing in domains ranging from health to energy.

Mots clés : silylium ions   chemical bond activation, organocatalysis   enantioselective processes

Participants :
- Université de Bordeaux (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 173076.0 €
Projet STARMAS (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2014)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Information Science and Engineering
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the last 25 years the total amount of marine trade has nearly doubled. In the same period the container trade has undergone a tenfold increase, making the container fleet the fastest growing fleet at present. With 80% of total EU trade being transported by sea, the maritime transport is of the greatest importance to the EU. The increasing demand in container transportation is met by use of more containerships. Such ships with large bow and stern flares and fine underwater hull are severely hit by an effect known as parametric rolling. Accidents including container loss and vessel structural damage are reported from all around the world. Capsizing could be regarded as a rare event, but the consequences of such event are fatal (loss of the ship and the crew). Agencies, classification societies and the public are showing more and more interests in increasing the safety of large container ships. STARMAS is a highly interdisciplinary integrated research and training programme focused on the application of novel active control methods to increase safety, energy efficiency and quality of life at sea of the 21st century maritime transport. The problem of ship roll on rough seas will be tackled using novel active roll control methodologies. Bi-directional transfer of knowledge and cross-fertilisation between traditionally detached engineering disciplines will be unlocked, utilising a unique research approach to enduring engineering problems related to sea keeping, survival rate, and energy efficiency of marine vessels. The programme will boost the career prospects, increase employability and widen the set of skills of the experienced researcher. The training and research will predominately take place within the academic sector, at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture (FAMENA). The researcher will also benefit from secondments to the non-academic partner Bureau Veritas, Paris, (BV) facilitating an inter-sectoral transfer of knowledge.

Mots clés : marine engineering, ship stability, active, passive vibration absorbers, passive anti roll tanks, ship roll control, active vibration control, parametric resonance, energy harvesting

Participants :
- University of Zagreb (Croatie) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 158010.0 €
Projet ORGANIC QUAL TRACERS (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2015)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Chemistry
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the last decade, the production and consumption of organic food has increased dramatically worldwide. The EU organic food market generates a turnover of more than 22 billion € with a total of approximately 11 million ha and 250,000 farms (2013). However, based on the literature reviewed, neither internal supply nor the legislative framework has kept up with this market expansion, been necessary a further harmonisation of methodology in data collection. On the other hand, the lack of reliable markers for the discrimination between organic and conventional products makes this market susceptible to attempted fraud. The Commission Regulation in a recent report (No 889/2008) highlights the need for greater cooperation between industry, Government, enforcement agencies, consumer groups and organisations. In this context, the project proposes to confirm the utility of the new state-of-the-art techniques in mass spectrometry analysis (IRMS and HRMS), in combination with MSA, to improve information (qualitative/quantitative) in both food control safety and quality and their application to organic products. It will offer analytical approaches to (i) obtain wide-ranging information about contaminants, (ii) determine natural components and (iii) establish (dis)similarities between products. The “ORGANIC QUAL TRACERS” project comes in response to the key requirement for solving the authentication challenges in the organic-food sector, especially in organic vegetables as they are the pioneering products in Europe. The proposal offers a contribution to the objectives set out in the Horizon 2020 Strategy (“A strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth”).

Mots clés : statistical analysis, hrms, pesticides

Participants :
- University of Almería (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 170121.6 €
Projet DEMOquality (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2018)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Social Sciences and Humanities
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the last decades, social inequalities within countries and the rise in socio-economic differences between European countries have been an increasing policy concern. Education plays a chief role as a resource to fight poverty and to ensure greater social and territorial cohesion, within and across countries, as recognised by the Europe 2020 strategy. Supporting individuals to achieve tertiary education is a necessary policy-target, however, in the long-term, it may not be sufficient to eradicate educational differences across countries. This is especially due to the links between differential demographic behaviours by educational groups and the intergenerational transmission of education. Keeping a comparative approach by country and sex, this project aims at highlighting macro-level consequences of the educational gradient in family formation processes and the transmission of tertiary education from one generation to the next one. To this end, I will use the most recent comparable cross-country individual survey-data (SHARE, GGS), and I will apply advanced statistical techniques (i.e., decomposition and simulation methods) that permit to reconcile micro-macro levels of analysis. This project emphasizes the fact that enacting family policies, which aim to flatten the educational gradient in demographic behaviour, is a possible way to reduce educational differences across European countries. Next, I also emphasize the bidirectional relationship between parent-children generations. On the one hand, I focus on the transmission of education from parents to children and, on the other hand, I refer to (potential) feedback effects of children’s education on parents’ survival. Overall, this project will uncover the connections between the fields of demography and social inequalities. Low fertility and higher life expectancy at older ages, which are the drivers of population ageing, are not necessarily bad outcomes when they may lead to a decrease in social inequalities.

Mots clés : education, joint demographic and mobility model

Participants :
- Institut national d'études démographiques (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 184707.84 €
Projet NonVisNumCog (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2015)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Social Sciences and Humanities
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the literature on numerical cognition, vision was for a long time assumed to play an important role in the development of number representations. In line with this idea, I recently demonstrated that congenitally blind (CB) present a qualitatively different representation of numbers by comparison to their sighted peers. In this project, I propose to further explore with fMRI techniques whether the CB qualitative different numerical representation is supported by specific cerebral reorganisation of the brain. I also propose to examine whether the qualitative different numerical representations of CB could delay the acquisition of numerical concepts in childhood. I finally propose to explore the extent to which this knowledge of the blind’s numerical representation could be extended to the elaboration of a multisensory mathematics teaching program. I advocate the idea that this research program is crucial because poor mathematical competencies are common among adults and result in employment and day-to-day activities difficulties. Further research into multisensory access to numerical information could therefore lead to education benefits in teaching mathematics to young children but could also promote interventions that target specific mathematical deficits. I am uniquely suited for working on this project due to a number of parallels between the skills the proposed project requires, and the skills I possess. This includes: 1) my successful collaborations with Dr Collignon in the past; 2) good inter-personal skills; 3) my strong background in the research topic; 4) working with a variety of participant populations, and combining different methodologies. If funded, the present project will allow me to continue to explore a large overarching question by applying my pre-existing knowledge to a broader range of experimental techniques and topics - a vital skill to become an independent researcher in Europe.

Mots clés : numerical cognition, blindness, fmri, multisensory teaching, development

Participants :
- University of Trento (Italie) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 180277.2 €
Projet WomInPubS (Horizon 2020, appel à projets 2018)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Social Sciences and Humanities
Statut du projet : CLOSED

In the literature, not much has been reported on Kurdish urbanism in Kurdistan (a region in the Middle East traditionally inhabited mainly by Kurds) in general and women’s public space in particular, especially its socio-spatial implications for their everyday lives. For this reason, its particularities have largely remained unnoticed in the urban research debates concerning the Middle Eastern region. This is especially important if we consider Kurdish women’s interaction with public space in a cross-cultural comparative study in different urban contexts that Kurdish women have experienced. They can narrate different kinds of engagement, the challenges they are confronted with and the strategies they have gained to overcome gender inequality leading to their self-empowerment in social life. There are hardly any specific analyses concerning the modes and extent of Kurdish migrant women’s interaction with public space in European cities, particularly how this new spatial context affects their social lives and their empowerment. The number of Kurdish people is increasing in Western European cities: Based on the prestigious Institut Kurde in Paris, the most current estimates indicate the presence of about 1.5 to 1.7 million Kurds in Western Europe, out of these about 850,000 to 950,000 in Germany and 80,000 to 95,000 in Austria. Consequently, this line of research requires more attention from both international and national contexts in order to understand the experiences, challenges and needs of these urban dwellers in design and production of inclusive public spaces that are suitable for multicultural groups and that provide the possibility of an intercultural dialogue. The results of this proposed innovative research project could help find ways of making better connections between their everyday experiences as (im) migrants and public spaces as a constituent element of their social lives.

Mots clés : public spaces, kurdish women, comparative study, self empowerment, gender inequality

Participants :
- Austrian Academy of Sciences (Autriche) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 186167.04 €