Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-informations-sur-les-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
Toward a new understanding of learning in the brain: dynamic parallel circuit loops for complex learning (DopamineLearnLoops)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Starting grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: Neuroscience and Disorders of the Nervous System
Panel description: Nervous system development, homeostasis and ageing , nervous system  function and dysfunction , systems neuroscience  and modelling , biological basis of cognitive processes and of behaviour, neurological and mental disorders – In humans and all other organisms
Countries involved: Israel
Call: ERC STARTING GRANTS (ERC-2023-STG, 2023)
Start date: 2023-10-01
End date: 2028-09-30
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1499375.0
EU funding (EUR): 1499375.0
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

The brain’s ability to learn is arguably its most exceptional capacity. Learning in biological brains far surpasses machine learning and requires much less training. How does the brain accomplish this? Why is biological learning still better than the most advanced machine learning algorithms to date? According to the standard model of reward-based learning in the brain, a single error signal is broadcast from the dopamine system and used to update the entire network, implementing a simple form of reinforcement learning. However, the standard model fails to predict several recent experimental findings, leaving open the question of how learning is implemented in the brain. In this project, I propose a new theory of how the brain learns: learning is implemented by multiple dopamine-based learning systems working in parallel circuit loops. These loops relay partial error signals to specific processing areas and permit independent evaluation of the value of different features in the external environment as well as the internal state, enabling learning of complex tasks with multiple relevant features. The loops are engaged dynamically according to the demands of the task, enabling the system to be flexible for learning a wide variety of behaviours of varying complexity. The presence of multiple dynamic parallel learning loops might enable the ability to generalize learning, which is currently the hallmark of biological intelligence. We will use state-of-the art techniques under the framework of our theory to elucidate basic mechanisms underlying the functional circuitry of the learning system (Aim 1), how it operates under different behavioural dynamics (Aim 2), and what algorithm it implements (Aim 3). Success of this project will enable a novel understanding of how the brain learns complex tasks as well as pave the way for the development of new brain-inspired deep reinforcement-learning algorithms.

Keywords: dopamine,neural circuits,neural basis of learning,deep reinforcement learning
Interface between Membraneless Organelles and Membranes (MEMLESSINTERFACE)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Starting grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: Molecules of Life: B iological  Mechanisms , Structures  and Functions
Panel description: For all organisms : Molecular biology , biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biophysics , synthetic and chemical biology, drug design, innovative methods and modelling
Countries involved: Germany
Call: ERC STARTING GRANTS (ERC-2022-STG, 2022)
Start date: 2024-03-01
End date: 2029-02-28
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1499648.75
EU funding (EUR): 1499648.75
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

Liquid-liquid phase separation is a major mechanism for organizing macromolecules, particularly proteins with intrinsically disordered regions, in compartments not limited by a membrane. Many such compartments (also known as biomolecular condensates) have been described, and it is currently agreed that they take over several cellular functions. To do so, they need to interact with other compartments, just as the membrane-bound organelles interact with each other through well-defined contact sites. However, at present no concept exists explaining how membrane-less and membrane-bound organelles interact. I propose here to address this question by determining the molecular mechanisms and functional impact of the interactions between liquid phases and membranes. I hypothesize that a novel type of contact sites between membrane-less organelles and membranes, which I termed dipping contacts, is critical for coupling of diffusion and material properties of condensates to biochemical processes occurring in the membrane-bound compartments. To test this, I will capitalize on a prominent biomolecular condensate that I characterized a few years ago, and which has already been used widely in the literature: the synaptic vesicle (SV) condensate, which clusters SVs together with proteins such as synapsins and synucleins. For this, I have already developed advanced reconstitution tools, single-molecule tracking and genetic code expansion in living neurons, which will enable me to determine: i) how the material properties of SV condensates are regulated, ii) how they recruit specific organelles, while rejecting others, iii) the proteins that mediate signaling and interactions of SV condensates with mitochondria and the ER. Overall, this project will lead to an understanding of the interface between condensates and classical organelles, which is extremely relevant in the context of aggregation-related diseases where faulty inclusions of membranes and proteins play a leading role.

Keywords: liquid liquid phase separation,membrane biochemistry,synaptic vesicles,intrinsically disordered proteins
Development of a next generation AMmONia FC system (AMON)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness
Programme: Climate, Energy and Mobility
Theme: Public-private partnerships
Destination: Clean Hydrogen
Action type: Research and Innovation actions
Partnership: CLEANH2 (JU-JTI)
Countries involved: Italy,Finland,Denmark,Netherlands,Switzerland,Sweden
Call: Ammonia powered fuel cell system focusing on superior efficiency, durable operation and design optimisation (HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2022-1, 2022)
Start date: 2023-01-01
End date: 2027-03-31
Duration (months): 51.0
Total project cost (EUR): 4130784.25
EU funding (EUR): 3998028.75
Participants: 14
Project status: SIGNED

AMON project aims at developing a novel system for the utilization and conversion of ammonia into electric power at high efficiency using a solid oxide fuel cell. High temperature electrolysers have demonstrated in several activities the capacity to outreach high performances in lab scale prototypes and validation tests. The project will deal with the design of the basic components of the system including the fuel cell, the ammonia cracker, the ammonia burner and an anode gas recirculation, the engineering of the whole Balance of Plants, and the validation of the compliance with ammonia use for all the specific parts and components. For the development of the solid oxide fuel cell, a G8X cell from SOLIDpower will be utilized, first validated in a laboratory at the level of single cells, for electrochemical properties, degradation and post mortem analysis, at the level of single repeating units for the validation of interconnects and sealing components, and at the level of stacks and stack modules. An overall Ammonia fuel cell system will be engineered and manufactured to be tested in a relevant environment in a port area. The final system will be in the size of 8 kW stack module, with an ammonia cracker and a heat management system. It will aim at an overall electrical efficiency in the range of 70%. AMON will be supported alongside the engineering by horizontal strategic support on critical and open issues involving use of ammonia with fuel cells, such as safety assessment, on techno-econmic analysis, on modelling at a multiscale and multiphysic levels, to consolidate, confirm and direct the engineering of the technology. Despite the small pilot demostration scale, AMON will propose a scaled engineering for a system suitable to be applied in end uses such as ports, interports, maritime environment, besides autonomous power systems. AMON will promote the use of ammonia as a hydrogen carrier, to enhance the flexibility of the energy system.

Keywords: ammonia fuel cells,hydrogen technologies,solid oxide fuel cells
Hierarchical and Agile Resource Management Optimization for Networks in Smart Energy Communities (HARMONISE)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness
Programme: Climate, Energy and Mobility
Theme: Energy
Destination: Efficient, sustainable and inclusive energy use
Action type: Innovation actions
Countries involved: Greece,Spain,Italy,Estonia,Norway,Denmark,Romania,Switzerland
Call: Interoperable solutions for positive energy districts (PEDs), including a better integration of local renewables and local excess heat sources (HORIZON-CL5-2023-D4-01, 2023)
Start date: 2024-06-01
End date: 2027-11-30
Duration (months): 42.0
Total project cost (EUR): 4648406.25
EU funding (EUR): 3953606.25
Participants: 16
Project status: SIGNED

The main objective of HARMONISE is to provide an End-to-End interoperable & hierarchical solution to support, encourage and scale up the transformation of traditional districts to Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) through optimal design, management, and integration in an interoperable, scalable, and replicable manner, following a user-centered approach, from the technology, business operation and social engagement perspectives, empowering the transition towards the European Super Grid . The consortium aims to offer a hierarchical approach, integrating, fog-enabled devices, co-simulation modules, open-standard interfaces, APIs, and open-standard System Structure and Parameterization (SSP) that will enable the connection with other tools and established networks. Additionally, a user engagement app will be presented to support the development of active business models, energy awareness and incentivize stakeholder involvement and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the consortium plans to introduce a transactive energy approach via a blockchain-based network that allows dynamic and secure smart contracts and energy exchange. HARMONISE will support the management and expansion of multisectoral PEDs, including electricity and heating networks, RES integration, mobility schemes, and energy storage problems by unifying energy transactions. HARMONISE will be demonstrated in 4 physical pilots and 1 digital pilot case that will incorporate all the other cases to a super nova Grid.

Keywords: positive energy districts interoperable tools
Hydrogen fuel cell electric non-road mobile MAChinery for Mining And Construction: An innovative, efficient, scalable, silent and modular power-train concept (H2MAC)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness
Programme: Climate, Energy and Mobility
Theme: Public-private partnerships
Destination: Clean Hydrogen
Action type: Innovation actions
Partnership: CLEANH2 (JU-JTI)
Countries involved: Spain,Türkiye,Germany,Finland,Sweden
Call: Real environment demonstration of Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) (HORIZON-JTI-CLEANH2-2023-1, 2023)
Start date: 2024-01-01
End date: 2027-12-31
Duration (months): 48.0
Total project cost (EUR): 6563805.0
EU funding (EUR): 4990769.76
Participants: 11
Project status: SIGNED

In H2MAC, two machines, namely an excavator and a shredder for the construction and mining sector, will be newly designed to integrate a FC powertrain and the related subsystems. The machines selected for the project will demonstrate a modular solution scalable, as the excavator will be powered by a FC consisting of one module of 120 kW, and the shredder will upscale the concept using two modules to enlarge the power to 240 kW. The operation of the machines is also complementary, as the excavator has a load profile derived of its movement during operation, while the shredder is a more static machine when operating. At the proposal stage, a preliminary assessment of the duty cycles have been performed to select the perfect showcase for the project activities, as well as carefully assess the size of the systems which will be developed during the project. This actions already done will pave the way to a successful project and minimise the project risks related to the planning of project resources. That, together with the simultaneous demonstration of the machines during 1000 hours in a single real environment, will allow the partners to develop solutions capable of operation in different sectors and operative patterns, and help broadening the project impacts and commercial exploitation. The consortium is composed of different technological partners, component manufacturers, machinery manufacturers and associations that will help communication, dissemination and exploitation through standardisation.

Keywords: nrmm,machinery,fuel cell applications,construction,mining
advanced sensing, monitoring and self-HEALING mechanisms to self-repair BATteries (HEALING BAT)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness
Programme: Climate, Energy and Mobility
Theme: Energy
Destination: Cross-sectoral solutions for the climate transition
Action type: Research and Innovation actions
Partnership: Batteries (co-programmed)
Countries involved: Germany,United Kingdom,Netherlands,Spain,Portugal,Switzerland
Call: Embedding smart functionalities into battery cells (embedding sensing and self-healing functionalities to monitor and self-repair battery cells) (Batteries Partnership) (HORIZON-CL5-2022-D2-01, 2022)
Start date: 2023-06-01
End date: 2027-05-31
Duration (months): 48.0
Total project cost (EUR): 3613415.0
EU funding (EUR): 3613415.0
Participants: 11
Project status: SIGNED

Europe must re-emerge as a global leader in battery technology by accelerating the development of underlying essential technologies and allowing a European battery cell manufacturing industry. As required in the EU Green Deal, rechargeable batteries with high round-trip efficiency are a vital technology that permits energy storage for numerous applications. The lithium-ion chemistries now dominate the market for rechargeable batteries. However, these are near the end of their improvement limits. In this direction, the advantage of the high energy density of Li-S batteries is especially significant for novel applications, e.g., where weight is a crucial parameter. The project aims to develop and implement self-healing concepts and materials in the critical battery components used in conventional Li-S batteries and extrapolate the ideas to develop a new class of self-healing structural batteries based on Li-S by investigating at the cell & component level. It will be built a toolbox of self-healing materials, sensors, and a customized Battery Management System to maximize the performance of the produced Li-S battery in terms of Quality, Reliability, and lifetime and to avoid or repair occurring damages; The BMS's goal is to govern the flow of energy to and from the battery system, monitoring sensor data with computational methods to identify events indicating degradation, as well as initiate self-healing actions. The resulting solution will revamp the European sector of rechargeable batteries with high round-trip efficiency energy storage for numerous applications, as specified in the EU Green Deal, consequently promoting innovative ideas needed to develop future sustainable batteries which demand fewer resources and create the groundwork for EU competitiveness. The project will be aligned with the Battery2030+ large-scale initiative within their "Integration of smart functionalities" theme, which supports sensing and self-healing.

Keywords: lithium sulfur battery,energy storage,sensor,self healing functionalities,bms,structural cells,pouch cells
AI-BASED ANALYSIS OF MULTIMODE NONLINEAR FIBER ENDOSCOPIC IMAGING (MULTISCOPE-HopOn)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area
Programme: Widening participation and spreading excellence
Theme: Improved access to Excellence
Destination: Improved access to Excellence
Action type: Research and Innovation actions
Countries involved: Italy,Portugal
Call: Hop-on facility (HORIZON-WIDERA-2025-03, 2025)
Duration (months): 20.0
Total project cost (EUR): 271831.25
EU funding (EUR): 271831.25
Participants: 2
Project status: CLOSED

Early diagnosis is critical to increase the probability of survival for cancer patients. However, nowadays there is a significant delay between the identification of a potential cancerous condition, its confirmation by a pathologist, and the beginning of the treatment. Thus, there is a need for novel tools that shorten the diagnostic-treatment cycle. The novel endoscopic tool under development at MULTISCOPE is one such example, where through the combination of multifiber optical biopsy (OB) and with cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) it will be possible to synchronize real time inspection of dysplasias with treatment and its follow-up. However, the development of novel and high dimensional imaging, such as OBs, poses challenges for clinicians, including those of knowledge gaps. This proposal seeks to develop novel AI tools that can support clinicians in analyzing the novel images acquired by the MULTISCOPE device. We propose to join the MULTISCOPE team and implement models to facilitate real time tissue identification and classification, diagnosis, and treatment effect prediction. We will also create a novel generative framework to convert OB images into standard pathology ones, bridging the knowledge gap for clinicians and improving the transparency of the models.

Keywords: medical imaging artificial intelligence optical biopsy plasma therapy nonlinear optics
Role of the neuroendocrine axis and its link with obesity in the genesis of PCOS (DROPCOS)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Postdoctoral Fellowships
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Life Sciences
Countries involved: Spain
Call: MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2022 (HORIZON-MSCA-2022-PF-01, 2022)
Start date: 2023-05-01
End date: 2025-04-30
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 181152.96
EU funding (EUR): 181152.96
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a human hormonal disorder of complex etiology, characterized by reproductive, endocrine and metabolic abnormalities, which affects 15% of women of reproductive age and has a very low survival rate. Recent studies on its pathophysiology suggest that it reflects alterations in homeostatic feedback mechanisms between the ovaries, adipose tissue, and hypothalamic circuits that develop during embryogenesis. Despite its high prevalence and significant impact on health, there are no effective treatments for PCOS due to its complex etiology. The development of new animal models displaying features of human PCOS is an unmet need because classical mouse models of PCOS have relied on its induction with androgen excess, providing only very limited insight into the pathogenesis of PCOS. In a genetic screen against secretable and transmembrane proteins involved in tissue-to-tissue communication, the host lab has identified new genes that act as sensors of the amount of body fat in the larval prothoracic endocrine gland of Drosophila. This gland corresponds to the neurosecretory part of the mammalian hypothalamus and mutants in these genes are characterized by PCOS. The main objective of this proposal is to characterize how cell communication in the neuroendocrine-adipose tissue-ovary axis is responsible for the uncontrolled proliferation of gonadal germ cells. The underlying PCOS will be studied using single-cell genomic approaches, metabolomics, and genetic studies on the different elements that make up this axis. By elucidating the molecular/hormonal mechanisms involved in brain-adipose tissue-ovary communication in normal development and disease, I hope to better define the pathogenesis and development of targeted therapies against PCOS.

Keywords: drosophila,obesity,ovary,polycystic ovary syndrome pcos,neuroendocrine axis
New frontiers in chronic pain management: A personalised support package targeting the mechanistic links between social disadvantage and pain sensitisation (PainSupportLink)

Framework: Horizon Europe — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Starting grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: Prevention,  Diagnosis and T reatment of Human Diseases
Panel description: Medical technologies  and tools for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of human diseases, therapeutic approaches and interventions , pharmacology, preventative  medicine, epidemiology and public health , digital medicine
Countries involved: Ireland
Call: ERC STARTING GRANTS (ERC-2025-STG, 2025)
Start date: 2026-05-01
End date: 2031-04-30
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1747001.25
EU funding (EUR): 1747001.0
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

This project will advance chronic pain treatment by developing a personalised support package tailored to patients' uniqu. e social, biological, and psychological drivers of pain. Chronic pain affects billions and costs Europe €440 billion annually. Socially disadvantaged individuals, especially those of low socioeconomic status, are disproportionately affected, but current treatments primarily target biological and psychological factors, overlooking social elements. This gap may explain the modest and short-lived effects of current treatments, particularly in vulnerable groups. I hypothesise that adding personalised community support—an approach not yet explored for pain—will enhance outcomes and propose four work packages: WP1 Identify causal pathways through which biological, psychological, and social factors mediate the effects of social disadvantage on pain to identify support targets, using latent class mediation analysis of longitudinal cohort data. WP2 Build a personalised support package tailored to individuals' needs and targets identified in WP1, using a scoping review, qualitative study, and feasibility trial. WP3 Evaluate the support package's effects on pain, disability and quality of life through a randomised clinical trial. WP4 Investigate whether selected biological (inflammation, nervous system sensitisation, physical activity), psychological (mental health, self-efficacy), and social (support, isolation) mechanisms mediate the support package’s effect on clinical outcomes using a causal mediation analysis. Multiomics blood profiling, computerised cuff pressure algometry, activity accelerometers, and questionnaires will be employed. This project will advance understanding of how bio-psycho-social mechanisms link social disadvantage to pain and transform pain outcomes through a personalised, socially sensitive, equity-driven framework that addresses the full range of social, biological, and psychological factors, surpassing current treatments.

Keywords: chronic musculoskeletal pain social disadvantage social prescribing link workers self management randomised controlled trial psychologically informed exercise and education