Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-informations-sur-les-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
A Streptavidin Microarray Platform for Capturing of Circulating Tumor Cells from the Blood of Cancer Patients (CAPTURE-CTC)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Proof of concept grants
Action type: ERC actions
Countries involved: Germany
Call: ERC Proof of Concept Grant (ERC-2014-PoC, 2014)
Start date: 2015-06-01
End date: 2016-11-30
Duration (months): 18.0
Total project cost (EUR): 149750.0
EU funding (EUR): 149750.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

The main cause of death in cancer patients is not the primary tumor but rather metastasis, which is initiated by the spread of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the blood. Therefore, CTCs will become a valuable diagnostic tool, once a reliable, cost-effective method is established. Research in the ongoing ERC Advanced Investigator Grant DISSECT (PI: Klaus Pantel) has revealed clear limitations of existing platforms for the detection of CTCs. The enrichment and identification of CTCs out of a blood sample is still a major challenge, mainly because the ratio between CTCs and blood cells is approximately 1:109. The proposed CAPTURE-CTC project is based on this knowledge and aimed to develop and validate a novel improved platform for CTC detection: Pumping a suspension of blood cells through a microfluidic chip, only labeled CTCs get immobilized on a micro-pattern due to strong biotin-streptavidin interaction. Single cell analysis can be performed after the cells are quantified, optically localized and extracted from the pattern with a micro-capillary. This platform will be validated on cancer patients. The detection of CTCs is a very active field, targeted by several SMEs with approaches in different stages of development and/or clinical application. However, the only FDA-cleared assay for CTC detection is the “CellSearch CTC Test” which will be the benchmark in regard to performance, validity of results and cost per test. The CellSearch system has technical limitations (e.g., EpCAM-negative CTCs are not captured and it is a closed system that allows no easy access to the captured CTCs for subsequent molecular characterization analyses). Our proposed CAPTURE-CTC system will constitute a novel platform that will overcome these important limitations and establish an easy-to-use blood test allows further downstream analyses of CTCs as a “liquid biopsy” relevant to personalized cancer medicine.

Keywords: nanotechnology,microfluidic chips,cancer,circulating tumor cells,blood,liquid biopsy,targeted therapy,personalized medicine,oncology
Holomorphic Dynamics connecting Geometry, Root-Finding, Algebra, and the Mandelbrot set (HOLOGRAM)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: Mathematics
Panel description: All areas of mathematics, pure and applied, plus mathematical foundations of computer science, mathematical physics and statistics
Countries involved: Germany,Germany,France
Call: ERC Advanced Grant (ERC-2015-AdG, 2015)
Start date: 2016-10-01
End date: 2022-06-30
Duration (months): 69.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2312481.0
EU funding (EUR): 1036640.75
Participants: 3
Project status: CLOSED

Dynamical systems play an important role all over science, from celestial mechanics, evolution biology and economics to mathematics. Specifically holomorphic dynamics has been credited as “straddling the traditional borders between pure and applied mathematics”. Activities of numerous top-level mathematicians, including Fields medalists and Abel laureates, demonstrate the attractivity of holomorphic dynamics as an active and challenging research field. We propose to work on a research project based in holomorphic dynamics that actively connects to adjacent mathematical fields. We work on four closely connected Themes: A. we develop a classification of holomorphic dynamical systems and a Rigidity Principle, proposing the view that many of the additional challenges of non-polynomial rational maps are encoded in the simpler polynomial setting; B. we advance Thurston’s fundamental characterization theorem of rational maps and his lamination theory to the world of transcendental maps, developing a novel way of understanding of spaces of iterated polynomials and transcendental maps; C. we develop an extremely efficient polynomial root finder based on Newton’s method that turns the perceived problem of “chaotic dynamics” into an advantage, factorizing polynomials of degree several million in a matter of minutes rather than months – and providing a family of rational maps that are highly susceptible to combinatorial analysis, leading the way for an understanding of more general maps; D. and we connect this to geometric group theory via “Iterated Monodromy Groups”, an innovative concept that helps solve dynamical questions in terms of their group structure, and that contributes to geometric group theory by providing natural classes of groups with properties that used to be thought of as “exotic”.

Keywords: msc2010 37fxx complex dynamical systems,teichm ller theory,root finding,iterated monodromy groups
What does it mean to be heterosexual? (HETERO)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Starting grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: The Social World and Its Diversity
Panel description: Sociology, social psychology, social anthropology, education sciences, communication studies
Countries involved: United Kingdom
Call: ERC Starting Grant (ERC-2017-STG, 2017)
Start date: 2018-05-01
End date: 2023-04-30
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 746048.0
EU funding (EUR): 746048.0
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

What does mean to be heterosexual? How do you know if you are heterosexual? Though much research has investigated what it means to be *homosexual* very little empirical research has investigated the meaning of heterosexuality. Furthermore, most people who consider themselves heterosexual have never given this question much thought. However, a number of recent, tragic events (e.g., the murder of Gwen Araujo and the deadly attack by Omar Mateen) show that our perceptions of heterosexuality can have profound ramifications for our self-image and our treatment of transgender individuals, gay men and lesbians. My prior research has pointed to two lay models of heterosexuality that can have important consequences for anti-LGBT prejudice – a model of heterosexuality as a form of biological-purity and a model of heterosexuality as a form of moral purity. Across 14 studies (4 large-scale, representative surveys in multiple countries, and 10 lab-based genuine experiments), this proposed research will verify the biological-purity and moral-purity models of heterosexuality, identify the predictors and associated consequences of these models (Studies 1 – 4), investigate the consequences of the biological-purity model for anti-transgender prejudice (Studies 5 – 7), investigate the consequences of the moral-purity model for anti-gay prejudice (Studies 8 – 12), and investigate whether and how individuals strategically adopt or abandon these models to preserve their values and self-image (Studies 13 – 14). Together, these studies will add meaningfully to our theoretical understanding of sexual orientation and some of the causes of anti-gay and anti-transgender prejudice. On a practical level, they will point to new ways of combating anti-LGBT prejudice, even in some of the most severely prejudiced societies, and have implications for a number of real-world issues such as legal protection and gay conversion therapy.

Keywords: social psychology,sexual orientation,heterosexuality,prejudice,transgender,lesbian
E2-CREATE: Encoding Embodied CreativityVisual arts, performing arts, film, design (E2-CREATE)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Individual Fellowships (IF)-Standard European Fellowships
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Social Sciences and Humanities
Countries involved: United Kingdom
Call: Individual Fellowships (H2020-MSCA-IF-2018, 2018)
Start date: 2020-04-06
End date: 2022-09-13
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 212933.76
EU funding (EUR): 212933.76
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Choreography is an art form well-known for combining rigorous physical and mental training with the highest degrees of creativity. However, as dance is the most ephemeral of art forms, this extraordinary embodied creativity has been in danger of disappearing without leaving a significant trace. That was until several leading dance artists began over a decade ago to experiment with digital technology as a means to document their unique approaches to choreography. The result today is an impressive accumulation of interdisciplinary research showing how embodied creativity in dance can be systematically studied and documented, how computer-aided design can effectively communicate the outcomes and how digitised recordings can be processed computationally to reveal new information about choreographic principles, processes and methods. Drawing on these developments in dance digitisation and recent progress in computational arts, the Fellowship will focus on fusing artistic skills in dance with artistic skills in computing. The goal is to achieve a new level of sophisticated creative transfer at the intersection of the two fields by taking advantage of significant advances in the fields of computer vision and machine learning combined with the high-level of expertise the Fellow brings from the field of generative computer art. Generative computer art techniques have until now not been integrated fully into the dance digitisation process, but they have extraordinary potential in combination with machine learning to expand the capability of computational systems to learn from and model existing artistic approaches. The Fellow’s extensive experience of working at the intersection between dance technology and computer art and science means he is extremely well placed to facilitate and achieve this encoding of embodied creativity with lasting impact for mixed machine-human collaboration and interdisciplinary art and science research.

Keywords: embodied creativity,creative coding,dance digitisation,generative methods,computer simulations,interdisciplinary collaboration
Two-Dimensional Oscillatory Neural Networks for Energy Efficient Neuromorphic Computing (NeurONN)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Industrial Leadership
Programme: Information and Communication Technologies
Action type: Research and Innovation actions
Countries involved: Spain,Germany,Spain,Switzerland,France,United Kingdom
Call: Unconventional Nanoelectronics (H2020-ICT-2019-2, 2019)
Start date: 2020-01-01
End date: 2023-06-30
Duration (months): 42.0
Total project cost (EUR): 4232737.5
EU funding (EUR): 4232737.5
Participants: 7
Project status: SIGNED

Neuro-inspired computing architectures are one of the leading candidates to solve complex and large-scale associative learning problems for AI applications. The two key building blocks for neuromorphic computing are the neuron and the synapse, which form the distributed computing and memory units. In the NeurONN project, we are proposing a novel neuro-inspired computing architecture where information is encoded in the “phase” of coupled oscillating neurons or oscillatory neural networks (ONN). Specifically, VO2 metal-insulator transition (MIT) devices and 2D memristors will be developed as neurons and synapses for hardware implementations. We predict VO2 MIT devices are up to 250X more energy efficient than state of the art digital CMOS based oscillators, where 2D memristors are up to 330X more energy efficient than state of the art TiO2 memristors. Moreover, the predicted energy efficiency gain of ONN architecture vs state of the art spiking neural network (SNN) architecture is up to 40X. Thus, NeurONN will showcase a novel and alternative energy efficient neuromorphic computing paradigm based on energy efficient devices and architectures. Such ONN will demonstrate synchronization and coupling dynamics for establishing collective learning behavior, in addition to desirable characteristics such as scaling, ultra-low power computation, and high computing performance. NeurONN aims to develop the first-ever ONN hardware platform (targeting two demonstrators) and complete with an ONN design methodology toolbox covering aspects from ONN architecture design to algorithms in order to facilitate adoption, testing and experimentation of ONN demonstrator chips by all potential users to unleash the potential of ONN technology.

Keywords: neuromorphic computing,tcad modeling and simulation,vlsi design methods,chip architecture,energy efficiency,ultra low power consumption
Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of age-related muscle loss to inform Artificial Intelligence-based discovery of novel peptide therapeutics for sarcopenia. (Pept-AGE)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Individual Fellowships (IF)-Society and Enterprise panel
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Life Sciences
Countries involved: Ireland
Call: Individual Fellowships (H2020-MSCA-IF-2019, 2019)
Start date: 2020-06-02
End date: 2022-06-01
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 196590.72
EU funding (EUR): 196590.72
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Loss of muscle function through advancing age, injury or disease significantly decreases both the quality of life and life expectancy of millions of individuals globally. Treatments tackling this issue have proven elusive as in vitro systems aimed at modelling age-related muscle atrophy are primarily murine based and fail to capture the complexity of this process in humans. In particular, these models neglect to accurately account for the impact of cellular-ageing and senescence on the advancement of sarcopenia-induced muscle wastage. This project aims to address these problems by firstly developing a more human aligned in vitro ageing model to elucidate key pathways associated with muscle loss. From this in vitro model, we will identify key mechanistic pathways driving age-related muscle loss at the transcriptional and translational level. Supplied with suitable data, artificial intelligence (AI) has to potential to rapidly accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutics. As such, here, informed by data derived from the human in vitro model, Nuritas’ proven artificial intelligence platform will be applied to identify novel bioactive peptides that have the potential to counter the impact of cellular aging thus ameliorating muscle loss. This innovative proposal affords the experienced researcher the opportunity to bring his knowledge at the forefront of ageing research back to Europe and combine it with the expertise of an industry leader in AI therapeutic discovery, facilitating decisive two-way intersectoral transfer of knowledge. By integrating these distinct interdisciplinary skillsets this project has the expected outcomes of discovering more clinically relevant, translational models and therapeutics for muscle wastage disorders.

Keywords: ageing,sarcopenia,cachexia,artificial intelligence,peptides,drug development,muscle,autophagy,metabolism,in vitro,assay development,bioactive,cellular senescence
Demonstration of the Next Generation Wave Energy Device – POWERMODULE (PowerModule)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Societal Challenges
Programme: Secure, clean and efficient energy
Action type: SME instrument
Countries involved: Finland
Call: Stimulating the innovation potential of SMEs for a low carbon and efficient energy system (H2020-SMEINST-2-2016-2017, 2017)
Start date: 2017-10-01
End date: 2019-09-30
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 3991875.0
EU funding (EUR): 2499999.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Wello has developed and patented a concept which is able to convert the movement of waves into electric energy without any hydraulic joints and gears. The idea of Wello’s Power Module innovation is to combine vessel stabilization, damping and power production into one electro-mechanical device. This is achieved by installing Power Modules to the ship and other floating vessels. Power Modules are optimized either for providing energy to the process or for stabilizing the vessel movement. The difference between working principle is done by configuring user software and in some cases by dimensions. In Wello’s Power Module, the power take-off unit (PTO), consists of an eccentric spinning mass that rotates around the vertical generator axis. The innovation has been developed in small and full scale in EMEC (European Marine Energy Centre) at Orkney Islands during last several years. The clients of this innovation are cruise liner and other ship owners and operators, offshore oil&gas field operators as well as emerging small scale offshore power users like fish farms, desalination process stations, algae cultivation and remote island systems. The market size is several billion Euros. Stabilization for vessels is needed for health and safety reasons. Renewable energy replacing CO2 emissions and other pollution at vessels. Objective of this project is to demonstrate the concept in full scale and in operational environment, and to create full production capability. Outcome of this project is 300kW ocean energy generator. It can be installed into different vessel types and it produces stable electricity always when there are waves. Wello will make ocean energy feasible by offering a cost effective solution that is able to provide renewable energy at competitive cost. It offers stabilization and damping for vessels which other competing renewable energy sources cannot deliver. The innovation will deliver significant growth, jobs and investments for Europe.

Keywords: wave energy converter,vessel power generation,stabilizer,renewable energy,offshore,off grid,power module,damping,cruise liner ship,electricity,fish farm,algae,beacons,lighthouse
Spatial Division Multiplexing for Cold-Atom-Based Quantum Memory (Multiplex)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Individual Fellowships (IF)-Standard European Fellowships
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Physics
Countries involved: France
Call: Individual Fellowships (H2020-MSCA-IF-2020, 2020)
Start date: 2021-03-01
End date: 2023-02-28
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 196707.84
EU funding (EUR): 196707.84
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

Optical quantum memory, a device that enables the storage and retrieval of photonic qubits, is an essential component for a wide range of applications in quantum information science. The host demonstrated state-of-the-art memory based on large ensembles of cold atoms, with a storage-and-retrieval efficiency close to 90% for single photons. With this milestone reached, a timely and crucial effort is to develop multiplexed memories. This, in turn, should lead to higher-capacity network channels, bringing quantum networks one step closer to reality. In this context, the proposed research will uniquely adapt and exploit Space Division Multiplexing, a booming approach in classical telecommunications, to create and harness parallelized quantum links. The fellow, with a strong background in atomic physics and light shaping, will use his expertise to develop the project efficiently while expanding his skill-set to quantum information networks and developing his independence and leadership during the fellowship.

Keywords: quantum memory,structured light,atomic ensembles,space division multiplexing
Hydrogen at Extreme Conditions: Applying Theory to Experiment for creation, verification and understanding (HECATE)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: Condensed matter physics
Panel description: Structure, electronic properties, fluids, nanosciences, biological physics
Countries involved: United Kingdom
Call: ERC Advanced Grant (ERC-2015-AdG, 2015)
Start date: 2016-10-01
End date: 2023-03-31
Duration (months): 78.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2277206.0
EU funding (EUR): 2277206.0
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

Hydrogen is the simplest and most abundant element in the universe. It exists under extreme conditions in stars and planets. Nuclear fusion, requires creating such extreme temperature and pressure on earth. Lightweight storage of hydrogen in condensed form would unleash its potential as a fuel. The behaviour of a collection of protons and electrons presents an iconic challenge in fundamental physics. Diamond anvil cells (DAC) recently generated pressures above 400GPa, accessing conditions where the mechanical work of compression equals the chemical bonding energy. Most elements undergo dramatic structural changes in this regime, and rival predictions for hydrogen include molecular and atomic metals, superfluidity, superconductivity and one-dimensional melting. Yet when the new phase IV was discovered in 2011, it was none of these things: it was a totally unexpected complex molecular insulator. At these conditions experimental data is sparse: we must exploit it to the fullest extent, yet previous theoretical work has concentrated on routine density functional theory (DFT) simulation producing unmeasurable predictions. I will conduct a programme combining neutron scattering and Raman spectroscopy with theory and simulation focused on measurable quantities. This will require developing and implementing heuristic theories which do not currently exist. I will develop methods to find free energy, theory to extract Raman frequencies and linewidths from simulation, and techniques to determine the signature from entanglement of quantum rotors. This requires a thorough re-examination of the quantum scattering processes in the framework of DFT, including the interaction timescale and in metals, and a full quantum treatment of indistinguishable nuclei. Thus HECATE will be uniquely placed not only to produce new phases of hydrogen, but to reliably identify what has been found.

Keywords: hydrogen,pressure,free energy,electronic structure