Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-actions-marie-curie-participations-et-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
Projet PARKSEQ (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2022)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the fastest growing Neurodegenerative disorder, currently affecting an estimate of 7 to 10 million people worldwide. The disease is characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the accumulation of protein aggregates in the remaining ones. The loss of these cells leads to a dopamine deficit in the striatum which causes the motor symptoms characteristic of PD and the general malfunction of the neuronal circuitry in the basal ganglia. The existing treatment for PD is dopamine replacement therapy with levodopa. This drug alleviates the motor symptoms but has a number of side effects, loses efficacy with time and does not address the cognitive decline caused by PD. In order to gain a better understanding of the disease and open new paths towards an effective treatment, the PARKSEQ project will use the latest advanced in single-cell RNA sequencing and in situ hybridization to determine which cell-type specific gene regulatory networks (GRNs) are affected by PD in the striatum. To this end, I will use single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to study post-mortem human striatum samples from PD and control subjects, under the supervision and guidance of Ana Muñoz, a leading expert in PD and scRNA-seq studies. I will draw from my experience in Bioinformatics and in single cell data analysis to determine the cell types and subtypes existing in the human striatum. On each subtype, I will establish which genes are differentially expressed and, considering their co-expression, I will formulate putative altered GRNs. Then, during a secondment period, I will join Mats Nilsson laboratory to validate the scRNA-seq findings using in situ hybridization. Dr. Nilsson has advanced this technique making it possible to use verify the presence of over 100 genes simultaneously on intact tissue slices. This will enable me to verify the PD-induced alterations in the GRNs suggested by the scRNA-seq data.


Participants :
- Université de Stockholm (Suède) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université de Cadix (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 165312.96 €
Projet PHOENIX-UASL (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2023)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Social Sciences and Humanities
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Among the most recent remote sensing methodologies applied in archaeological research are proximity analysis carried out with UAS (Unmanned Aerial System). Commonly referred to as drones, they are rapidly evolving instruments that allow the use of different acquisition sensors, such as LiDAR (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging). This is a tool that makes it possible to scan not only objects, but also entire landscapes and to observe the ground surface (virtually cutting through vegetation and man-made elements), thus enabling better topographical reading and the identification of archaeological features. LiDAR mounted underneath aircraft has already proven to be a valuable tool for archaeological research in the past, although it is little used due to the high costs and low resolution of the digital terrain models produced in which only the topographical macro-elements are highlighted, such as fortifications and urban districts. Now, with the drastic reduction in prices and the miniaturization of hardware, it is not only possible to equip a drone with LiDAR, but also to obtain data at a centimetric resolution that allows even micro-topography to be appreciated. Despite its considerable potential, there is little pioneering research on the subject and a lack of manuals on the use of these LiDAR UAS and the interpretation of the data. Therefore, the aim of PHOENIX-UASL is the study and experimentation of these new technologies on some case studies that are well suited to the investigation, in order to grasp their potential and limitations; the results of which will be complementary to the classic studies of landscape archaeology and aimed at the diachronic reconstruction of places. Specifically, it is intended to target research at some important archaeological sites in Andalusia (Spain), such as the two Phoenician-Punic walled sites of Castillo de Doña Blanca and Cerro del Castillo (Cadiz), and, on the other hand, the indigenous sites on the hills of Medina Sidonia.

Mots clés : drones lidar remote sensing phoenician punic archaeology andalusian history

Participants :
- Université de Cadix (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 181152.96 €
Projet HMPC (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Information Science and Engineering
Statut du projet : SIGNED

The transition from fossil-fuelled vehicles to electric vehicles (EV) plays a vital role in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ultimately achieve net zero by 2050. However, the main challenges currently facing EV revolve around battery technology, availability of charging infrastructure and limited driving range. To tackle these challenges, the implementation of dynamic wireless charging (DWC) systems for EV is a key strategy on the agenda in the world. This project aims to develop a high magnetic permeability (MP) and cost-effective concrete (HMPC) for use in road pavement over static/dynamic wireless energy transfer (WPT) charging pads to enhance WPT efficiency. The project will explore two different techniques, maximising the success rate of achieving the main project goal. It will focus on developing high MP aligned steel fibre reinforced concrete panels to be bonded to charging pads or road surfaces as well as the development of high MP magnetite aggregate concrete panels. It is expected that the project outcome will improve WPT efficiency by reducing energy losses in existing electric roads between 0.5% and 3%. In addition, economic, disseminable and sustainable concretes will be developed by using low cost, high availability and sustainable materials instead of extremely expensive metals, such as cobalt and nickel.  The researcher will receive comprehensive training to enhance his future career, gaining expertise in new analytical and experimental techniques, project management, advanced training methodologies, supervision, academic publishing, patent writing, and preparing funding proposals. Furthermore, the project will ultimately contribute to the sustainability of energy resources, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and create new job opportunities.

Mots clés : high magnetic permeability concrete, magnetisable concrete, wireless power transmission efficiency, inductive energy transfer, aligned steel fiber, magnetite aggregate, concrete panel, electric road

Participants :
- Université de Warwick (Royaume-Uni) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université de Bradford (Royaume-Uni) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 276187.92 €
Projet UndergroundMed (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2022)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Social Sciences and Humanities
Statut du projet : SIGNED

This project will trace the history of the rediscovery of ancient catacombs between the 16th and 20th centuries across the Mediterranean from a broad European perspective, through studies conducted on travel influx, exploration, archive and museum collections. Catacombs are a valuable and cultural evidence of the transition from Antiquity to the Middle Ages in the Mediterranean basin. However, there are currently no systematic analyses on their rediscovery, since in-depth investigations have only been carried out on a local scale. The study will fill this gap and maintain a strong interest in museum and collection history, which so far has been greatly underrepresented in research. No studies have focused on the role played by catacomb archaeology from a perspective that will assist in building a European common culture. UndergroundMed will trace the history of the rediscovery of catacombs by a vast number of scholars, explorers and others during the aforementioned periods. The research will focus on various countries, using a multi-disciplinary approach combining archaeological surveys, museum studies and archival investigations to highlight the impact of these rediscoveries in European culture and its scientific excellence. The project will open the door to debate in regard to the historical definition of a shared European identity in a borderless Europe. Moreover, it will define the roles that European scholars had on the creation of an international and multicultural research-network while travelling across the shores of the Mediterranean, in search for catacombs. Ultimately, the fellowship will greatly contribute towards the researcher’s academic career, through networks, research experience and dissemination activities within the host institution together with the selected secondment. The relevant transfer of knowledge with the host institution will also greatly contribute towards the researcher’s career progression.

Mots clés : catacombs, explorations, museums, christian archaeology, collections

Participants :
- Université de Malte (Malte) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 221564.4 €
- Heritage Malta (Malte) — Partner, associated partner, Organismes publics (hors enseignement & recherche), subvention : 0.0 €
- Römisches institut der görres-gesellschaft (Vatican) — Partner, associated partner, Recherche, subvention : 0.0 €
Projet MicroBent (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2021)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Environment and Geosciences
Statut du projet : CLOSED

Management of nuclear waste is a serious worldwide environmental problem all. Deep geological repositories have been internationally proposed as the safest option for the disposal of these hazardous materials. The concept is based on a multi-barrier storage system with waste containers, surrounded by a bentonite buffer buried deeply within a stable geological formation. The bentonite formations in Almeria were characterized as a bentonite buffer reference material. However, few studies have described the influence of the microbes in the repository under in situ conditions, although its safety can be compromised not only by physical and chemical factors, but also by biogeochemical activity. Therefore, the hypothesis to be tested in this proposal is that indigenous microorganisms may play an important role for the safe disposal of nuclear waste. The main objective of this proposal is to study the microbial diversity and activity of the bentonite buffer under in situ conditions for a repository of radioactive waste. To address these points the following objectives will be carried out under in situ conditions: 1) to characterize the mineralogical and geochemical composition of the bentonite buffer 2) to determine the microbial of the incubated bentonite buffer 3) to determine the microbial activity of the incubated bentonite buffer. This proposal will extend the state-of-the-art for nuclear waste repositories by identifying active microorganisms in compacted bentonites and natural deep groundwaters and active microbial metabolic pathways. These vital questions need to be addressed to ensure the safety of the deep geological repository of nuclear waste, but also for other biotechnological uses like bioremediation of contaminated sites.

Mots clés : rna, dna, deep geological repository, highly radioactive waste

Participants :
- Université de Grenade (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 201714.48 €
- Linnaeus University (Suède) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
Projet REACT (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
Panel : Environment and Geosciences
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Calcium carbonates (CaCO3) are a group of minerals with a major impact on Earth's climate, as their formation and dissolution regulate the ocean's capacity to take up CO2 from the atmosphere. While each type of CaCO3 has a reactivity that depends on its structure, composition, and environment, experimental and modelling work generally simplifies CaCO3 as one homogeneous phase. Neglecting the variability in CaCO3 reactivity is especially problematic in coastal systems, which are intimately coupled with the atmosphere, contain a multitude of CaCO3 phases, and where environmental conditions shift rapidly. In REACT, I will introduce and test the concept of a reactive continuum of CaCO3, inspired by models of organic matter degradation. Combining expertise in CaCO3 dynamics, sediment biogeochemistry, and modelling, I will (1) describe the reactive continuum of CaCO3 in a complex mixture of phases through mechanistic laboratory experiments using a novel multi-tracer tool to track the order and rate of dissolution, (2) identify signs of the reactive continuum of CaCO3 in natural sediment environments by combining a thorough geochemical characterization of the sediment with detailed analysis of extracted CaCO3 particles, and (3) determine the effect of human activities on CaCO3 dissolution in coastal sediments by creating a numerical model describing the reactive continuum of CaCO3 and using it to simulate anthropogenic disturbances. REACT will advance our understanding of CaCO3 dynamics, which will be crucial when assessing the seafloor's response to climate change. The project will produce knowledge to support United Nations and European Union sustainability goals, and will provide new research tools for mechanistic studies of CaCO3 dissolution and incorporation into Earth system models. Leading this project will add key skills to my scientific and academic toolbox and prepare me for a career as an innovative, independent and excellence-oriented researcher.

Mots clés : sediment, early diagenesis, reaction transport model, stable isotopes, alkalinity, dissolved inorganic carbon, redox

Participants :
- Centre national de la recherche scientifique (France) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Recherche, subvention : 242260.56 €
- Université d'Otago (Nouvelle-Zélande) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
Projet PnocMDDSex (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2022)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships
Panel : Life Sciences
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent and disabling condition experienced by ~6% of the population worldwide. Interestingly, women are twice as likely as men to suffer from MDD, and the specific mechanisms contributing to such difference are only starting to be elucidated. Chronic mild stress has been shown to reproduce in rodents some of the main traits of MDD, such as anhedonia or anxiety-like behaviour. Chronic stress has been shown to interfere with prepronociceptin (Pnoc) expression in the anterior BNST (amBNST) in rodents. Interestingly, it has been established a functional antagonistic role of Pnoc neurons over corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)-expressing neurons, which mediate the stress response in mammals. Moreover, amBNSTPnoc neurons have been shown to support rapid arousal responses toward motivationally salient stimuli in mice. Preliminary data has demonstrated sex differences in amBNSTPnoc distribution across compartments, indicating possible sex-dependent effects of stress on amBNSTPnoc function. We aim to explore sex differences in amBNSTPnoc neurons in rapid arousal responses upon sucrose presentation and its relationship with chronic stress-driven anhedonia. To that end, rapid arousal responses in male and female mice will be studied after chronic stress in mice, and related to anhedonic-like behaviour, and Pnoc and CRH expression in compartments of the BNST. To further understand the effects of chronic stress in Pnoc neurons, calcium transients using 2-photon calcium imaging in amBNSTPnoc neurons will be studied before and after chronic stress. Chemogenetic activation of amBNSTPnoc after stress will be used to functionally test that low Pnoc expression drives hypoarousal states related to anhedonic behavior. The proposal aims to elucidate sex differences in the pathophysiology of chronic stress-driven depressive-like behaviour and provide new perspectives and ideas on the higher prevalence and treatment resistance in females.

Mots clés : major depressive disorder chronic stress sex differences prepronociceptin arousal

Participants :
- Université autonome de Barcelone (Espagne) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 285140.64 €
- Université de Caroline du Nord à Chapel Hill (Etats-Unis) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- CERCA Institution (Espagne) — Partner, associated partner, Recherche, subvention : 0.0 €
Projet IMACON (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships
Panel : Physics
Statut du projet : SIGNED

Beyond classical devices, functional material, such as ferroic materials, hold great promise for future nanoelectronic device concepts, enabling faster, smarter and more energy efficient computation. This new generation of materials develops in the direction of increased system complexity, and often involves complex 3D structures at the nanoscale with atomically sharp interfaces. The progress is catalyzed by the ability to resolve their properties at the relevant length scales, an increasingly difficult task.  As an MSCA fellow, Dr. Kasper Hunnestad will integrate migration, an existing computational method in geophysics, to conductive atomic force miscopy (cAFM). cAFM is typically limited to surface conductance measurements, whereas migration is a powerful technique employed for converting surface acquisitions of seismic data to subsurface 3D images. With Dr. Hunnestad’s background in both material science and geophysics, he can effectively develop this multidisciplinary method and exploit it to reveal 3D transport properties of exotic topological states in functional oxides. To begin the research, a two-year research stay at the University of Canterbury will enable two primary objectives: i) Develop the computational method migration for cAFM purposes ii) Perform experiments on materials hosting exotic topological states with technological potential.  In the return phase at the University of Oslo, the technique will be benchmarked against established electrical characterization techniques, leading to the final objective: iii) Correlate quantitative electrical measurements to the cAFM data  The research will pave the way for future investigations of 3D systems, largely expanding other researchers capabilities to understand their materials. Furthermore, it will strengthen Dr. Hunnestad’s network and competence, bringing him in contact with experts in the relevant scientific disciplines: ferroic materials, computational methods and electrical characterization.

Mots clés : geophysical signal processing combined with nanoscale transport measurements for 3d imaging capabilities

Participants :
- Université d'Oslo (Norvège) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 350668.08 €
- Université de Canterbury (Nouvelle-Zélande) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
Projet NARCOPOLITICS (Horizon Europe, appel à projets 2024)
Action : Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships
Panel : Social Sciences and Humanities
Statut du projet : SIGNED

NARCOPOLITICS aims to enhance our understanding of the global dynamics linking drug trafficking and political power through the case study of Bolivia between 1971 and 1982. During this period, Bolivia became a pivotal player in drug trafficking due to its extensive coca plantations, the Santa Ana cartel led by Roberto Suarez Gómez, and persistent ties between drug smugglers and political institutions ruled by the military, aligned with the National Security Doctrine. Adopting a long-term historical perspective and considering organized crime as a significant Cold War non-state actor, NARCOPOLITICS has three objectives: examining the role of drug traffickers in Bolivia's political developments and their adaptability to changes in the national and regional context; identifying the political conditions under which the Santa Ana cartel intersected with political and ideological spheres and assessing the consequences; and analyzing and comparing measures—both official and unofficial including operations of security agencies—taken by the three US administrations during this period, examining the long-term impact of the “war on drugs.” The research methodology combines recently opened archival documents and judiciary sources from different countries, providing a comprehensive narrative and analysis. This approach aims to address issues such as difficulty in identifying involved actors and ensuring data reliability. The rise of state-narco networks in countries like Mexico, Guinea-Bissau and Afghanistan highlights the urgent need for comprehensive research and policy responses. Understanding the historical context and evolution of drug-influenced states, as exemplified by Bolivia's experience, can provide critical insights into addressing these modern challenges. The Fellowship will benefit my career prospects, equipping me with new skills, knowledge, and specialized training, placing me at the forefront of my field as an established interdisciplinary researcher.

Mots clés : drug trafficking and politics latin american cold war organized crime transnational anti communism military dictatorships war on drugs

Participants :
- Université Ca' Foscari de Venise (Italie) — Coordinator, beneficiary, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 384484.02 €
- Université de Pittsburgh (Etats-Unis) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €
- Université de San Andrés (Bolivie) — Partner, associated partner, Enseignement supérieur ou secondaire, subvention : 0.0 €