Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-informations-sur-les-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
Methods for Quantum Computing (MQC)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Computer science and informatics
Countries involved: Latvia
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-05-01
End date: 2018-12-31
Duration (months): 68.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1360980.0
EU funding (EUR): 1360980.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Quantum information science (QIS) is a young research area at the frontier of both computer science and physics. It studies what happens when we apply the principles of quantum mechanics to problems in computer science and information processing. This has resulted in many unexpected discoveries and opened up new frontiers. Quantum algorithms (such as Shor’s factoring algorithm) can solve computational problems that are intractable for conventional computers. Quantum mechanics also enables quantum cryptography which provides an ultimate degree of security that cannot be achieved by conventional methods. These developments have generated an enormous interest both in building a quantum computer and exploring the mathematical foundations of quantum information. We will study computer science aspects of QIS. Our first goal is to develop new quantum algorithms and, more generally, new algorithmic techniques for developing quantum algorithms. We will explore a variety of new ideas: quantum walks, span programs, learning graphs, linear equation solving, computing by transforming quantum states. Secondly, we will study the limits of quantum computing. We will look at various classes of computational problems and analyze what are the biggest speedups that quantum algorithms can achieve. We will also work on identifying computational problems which are hard even for a quantum computer. Such problems can serve as a basis for cryptography that would be secure against quantum computers. Thirdly, the ideas from quantum information can lead to very surprising connections between different fields. The mathematical methods from quantum information can be applied to solve purely classical (non-quantum) problems in computer science. The ideas from computer science can be used to study the complexity of physical systems in quantum mechanics. We think that both of those directions have the potential for unexpected breakthroughs and we will pursue both of them.

Keywords: quantum computing,quantum algorithms,mathematical foundations of computer science
Exploiting new radio telescopes to understand the role of AGN in galaxy evolution (RADIOLIFE)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Universe sciences
Countries involved: Netherlands
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-04-01
End date: 2018-03-31
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2441923.0
EU funding (EUR): 2441923.0
Participants: 2
Project status: CLOSED

An intricate interplay between various, and sometimes, competing processes, rules the formation of galaxies. Accretion of gas leads to the formation of new stars and the growth of the central massive black hole. In return, the energy released by these processes can drive strong outflows of gas, profoundly affecting the gaseous medium in and around a galaxy. This mechanism of energy feedback is now a key ingredient in models of structure formation. However, its implementation is still largely ad hoc and far from realistic.. Observations of radio AGN suggest that this type of active nucleus can play an important role in feedback. Their large jets and lobes can efficiently couple with the ISM/IGM and transport energy to large distances, preventing gas from cooling and, therefore, providing a self-regulating mechanism for gas accretion. This proposal requests funding to set up a science team dedicated at explore the full impact of radio AGN on galaxy evolution. The possibility of making a major breakthrough in this field has become possible thanks to two new and revolutionary radio facilities becoming available in Europe: the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR), now in its commissioning phase, and the focal-plane array system Apertif to be installed starting 2013 on the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (WSRT). Both instruments use state-of-the-art technology and innovative approaches in all aspects of observing, calibration, processing and in the exploitation of radio data. They are among the most exciting pathfinders geared towards the realization of Square Kilometer Array (SKA). The scientific goals will be achieved by understanding the duty cycle of radio sources, i.e. how often the radio-loud phase appears in the life of a galaxy, and by quantifying their role in feedback effects by tracing massive gaseous outflows resulting from the impact of radio jets and lobes on the ISM/IGM of the host galaxy.

Keywords: radio astronomy,active galaxies,ism: jets and outflows
MEMS made Electron Emission Membranes (MEMBRANE)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Fundamental constituents of matter
Countries involved: Netherlands,Netherlands,United States
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-02-01
End date: 2018-01-31
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2396000.0
EU funding (EUR): 2396000.0
Participants: 3
Project status: CLOSED

We propose a radically new and generic type of detector for photons, electrons and energetic charged particles: a stacked set of curved miniature dynodes in vacuum, created through MicroMechanical Electronic Systems (MEMS) fabrication techniques on top of a state-of-the-art CMOS pixel chip. This combination in itself is an extremely efficient electron detector. By capping the system with a traditional photocathode, a highly sensitive timed photon counter can be realized, outperforming all existing photon detectors. By capping it with an Electron Emission Membrane, a timed particle tracking detector is realized with a time resolution far superior to current particle counters. The core innovation, i.e., the stacked curved dynodes on top of a pixel chip, will revolutionize electron detection in solid-state, atomic and molecular physics experiments. As a photon detector, it will have pico-second time resolution, much better than classical photomultipliers, at low noise. This will have impact on the field of medical imaging, optical communication, night-vision equipment and even 3D image recording by measuring the time-of flight of photons from a flashlight. As a particle detector, it will allow faster and higher-resolution measurements of the trajectories of fast charged particles, essential in modern particle physics experiments. Its time resolution is three orders of magnitude better than state-of-the-art Si planar detectors, opening new horizons for (vertex) tracking, time-of-flight spectrometers, track pattern recognition and trigger detectors. The realization of this detector concept requires high-risk/high-impact developments in the area of (1) fundamental understanding of electron emission, (2) the MEMS-based fabrication of novel curved transmission dynodes and (3) high-efficiency Electron Emission Membranes. To achieve these objectives, the PI will lead a concerted effort of technical physicists and theoreticians.

Keywords: mems technology,transmission dynode,electron emission,photon detection,electron detection,mip detection
Nanosized porous molecular metal oxides with functionalizable cavities and soft matter behaviour allow studies of new phenomena (NANOOXIDES)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Materials and Synthesis
Countries involved: Germany
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-02-01
End date: 2016-01-31
Duration (months): 36.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1128400.0
EU funding (EUR): 1128400.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

It is generally accepted that nano materials “will revolutionize our industries and our lives” (Nobel laureate R. Smalley). We wish to extend our work on unique metal-oxide nano materials, which offer signposting routes due to their structures/forms – like our worldwide highlighted and used spherical capsules with 20 gated pores – to study novel phenomena with impact for basic research as well as applications. These nano materials should now be adjusted regarding size, chemical composition, their linking to extended structures, and a variety of new tailored internal functionalities in order to get appropriate properties of interest for different purposes of nano science and technology. Among the examples are: the protection/stabilization of intermediates and transport of the encapsulated materials after pore closing, systematic studies regarding the generation of hydrophobic cavities with and without water (of importance for protein research and even related to drug design), the removal of a variety of hydrophobic (potentially toxic) compounds from water based on molecular recognition (a paradigmatic shift) and finally, stepwise capsule closing and opening related to allosteric effects. The intended work on the capsules should open doors for the understanding of phenomena in small spaces. Also materials based on the related wheel-shaped metal-oxides with unprecedented properties (i.e. soft matter behaviour) will be investigated.

Keywords: small space
Rare Earth Element reCYCLing with Low harmful Emissions (REE-CYCLE)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Products and process engineering
Countries involved: France
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-07-01
End date: 2018-06-30
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2255515.0
EU funding (EUR): 2255515.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

It is a matter of strategic independence for Europe to urgently find processes taking into account environmental and economic issues, when mining and recycling rare earths. Currently THERE ARE NO SUCH INDUSTRIAL PROCESS AVAILABLE and 0% WASTE RECYCLING of RARE EARTH ELEMENTS (REE). Plus, 97% of the mining operations are performed in China, hence representing a major Sword of Damoclès for the rest of the world’s economy. We propose to develop a new, cost effective and environmentally friendly REE recycling process. We will achieve this: (i) by enabling, for the first time ever, the fast measurement of free energy of mass transfer between complex fluids; hence it will now be possible to explore an extensive number of process formulations and phase diagrams (such a study usually takes years but will then be performed in a matter of days); (ii) develop predictive models of ion separation including the effect of long-range interactions between metal cations and micelles; (iii) by using the experimental results and prediction tools developed, to design an advanced & environmentally friendly process formulations and pilot plant; (iv) by enhancing the extraction kinetics and selectivity, by implementing a new, innovative and selective triggering cation exchange process step (ca. the exchange kinetics of a cation will be greatly enhance when compared to another one). This will represent a major breakthrough in the field of transfer methods between complex fluids. An expected direct consequence of REE-CYCLE will be that acids’ volumes and other harmful process wastes, will be reduced by one to two orders of magnitude. Furthermore, this new understanding of mechanisms involved in selective ion transfer should open new recycling possibilities and pave the way to economical recovery of metals from a very rapidly growing “mine”, i.e. the diverse metal containing “wastes” generated by used Li-ion batteries, super-capacitors, supported catalysts and fuel cells.

Keywords: microsystem integration,mesoscopic modelling,electroaccoustic effect
Interacting Photon Bose-Einstein Condensates in Variable Potentials (INPEC)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Fundamental constituents of matter
Countries involved: Germany
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-03-01
End date: 2018-02-28
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2133560.0
EU funding (EUR): 2133560.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Bose-Einstein condensation, the macroscopic ground state occupation of a system of bosonic particles below a critical temperature, has in the last two decades been observed in cold atomic gases and in solid-state physics quasiparticles. The perhaps most widely known example of a bosonic gas, photons in blackbody radiation, however exhibits no Bose-Einstein condensation, because the particle number is not conserved and at low temperatures the photons disappear in the system’s walls instead of massively occupying the cavity ground mode. This is not the case in a small optical cavity, with a low-frequency cutoff imprinting a spectrum of photon energies restricted to well above the thermal energy. Using a microscopic cavity filled with dye solution at room temperature, my group has recently observed the first Bose-Einstein condensate of photons. Building upon this work, the grant applicant here proposes to study the physics of interacting photon Bose-Einstein condensates in variable potentials. We will study the flow of the light condensate around external perturbations, and exploit signatures for superfluidity of the two-dimensional photon gas. Moreover, the condensate will be loaded into variable potentials induced by optical index changes, forming a periodic array of nanocavities. We plan to investigate the Mott insulating regime, and study thermal equilibrium population of more complex entangled manybody states for the photon gas. Other than in an ultracold atomic gas system, loading and cooling can proceed throughout the lattice manipulation time in our system. We expect to be able to directly condense into a macroscopic occupation of highly entangled quantum states. This is an issue not achievable in present atomic physics Bose-Einstein condensation experiments. In the course of the project, quantum manybody states, when constituting the system ground state, will be macroscopically populated in a thermal equilibrium process.

Keywords: bose-einstein condensation,quantum gases,optical lattices,cavity quantum electrodynamics,quantum manybody states
Seizing Electron Energies and Dynamics: a seed for the future (SEED)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Condensed matter physics
Countries involved: France
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-02-01
End date: 2018-01-31
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1700000.0
EU funding (EUR): 1700000.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Electronic correlation causes a wide range of interesting phenomena, such as superconductivity or the fractional quantum hall effect. It strongly impacts our surroundings – think about defect creation through a self-trapped exciton, or, in the animal world, the adhesion of a gecko on a surface (through the van der Waals attraction). Although the underlying Coulomb interaction is « simple » and well understood, a unifying framework is still missing that would allow us to describe, analyze, understand and predict all those phenomena on the same footing. In this project we will introduce and establish a completely new method for the calculation of properties of correlated electron systems including ground state total energies, excitation spectra, electron-phonon coupling and non-equilibrium dynamics. The method is based on a non-perturbative solution of a multidimensional functional differential equation. This equation is the SEED from which distinct sub-lines of research will be grown. Based on my widely recognized experience in the field of many-body physics and starting from recent results of an exploratory study, the project will encircle the problem working on different levels of approximation, each of them introducing new physics. Thus every step along the project will allow us to tackle challenging questions, such as: “Does strong coupling in a material lead to new or exotic elementary excitations?” or “What can we say about multi - exciton generation, and how could it be tuned?”. These questions and our theoretical answers will be embedded in a tangible context through the study of emerging topics including Mott insulators and materials for photovoltaic applications. Each of these theoretical steps and planned applications carries the potential for breakthrough; together, they promise a seismic shift in our understanding of correlated processes and in our capability to predict new materials properties.

Keywords: many-body theory,correlation effects in materials
Robotic Dynamic Manipulation (RODYMAN)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Systems and communication engineering
Countries involved: Italy
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-06-01
End date: 2019-05-31
Duration (months): 72.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2496600.0
EU funding (EUR): 2496600.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

The goal of the RoDyMan project is the derivation of a unified framework for dynamic manipulation where the mobile nature of the robotic system and the manipulation of non-prehensile non-rigid or deformable objects will explicitly be taken into account. Novel techniques for 3D object perception, dynamic manipulation control and reactive planning will be proposed. An innovative mobile platform with a torso, two lightweight arms and multifingered hands, and a sensorized head will be developed for effective execution of complex manipulation tasks, also in the presence of humans. Dynamic manipulation will be tested on an advanced demonstrator which is currently unfeasible with the prototypes available in the labs, where the application scenario is conceived to emulate the human ability to carry out a challenging robotic task. The research results to be achieved in RoDyMan will contribute to paving the way towards enhancing autonomy and operational capabilities of service robots, with the ambitious goal of bridging the gap between robotic and human task execution capability.

Keywords: dynamic manipulation,mobile manipulators,interaction control
The Mathematics of the Structure of Matter (MASTRUMAT)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Mathematical foundations
Countries involved: Denmark
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-04-01
End date: 2018-03-31
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1465016.0
EU funding (EUR): 1465016.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

The objective of the proposed research in mathematical physics is to study the quantum theory of matter from a mathematical perspective. We will consider systems ranging from the tiny scale of atoms over macroscopic everyday matter to the gigantic scale of stars. Despite the range in scale, these systems may all be described by many-body quantum physics. Our aim is to rigorously understand their stability and structure, in particular, exotic phenomena such as Bose-Einstein condensation, superconductivity, superfluidity, and special low-dimensional behavior. The ultimate goal is to understand the full many-body theory but we will also investigate simpler approximate models such as Bogolubov’s model for superfluidity, Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) and Ginzburg-Landau (GL) models of superconductivity, and the Hartree-Fock model of atoms and molecules. The role of such models is two-fold. On one hand they are of independent interest. On the other hand and more importantly they may give information about the many-body theory. This is true to the extent we can estimate the degree to which they approximate in appropriate limits. From a mathematical point of view our approach is variational. All the theories we consider are formulated in terms of energy functionals. The full many-body theories are linear but due to the essentially uncontrolled number of variables they are extremely complicated. The approximate models are non-linear. Surprisingly they are nevertheless significantly simpler due to the reduction in degrees of freedom. Often the limits correspond to semiclassical limits for spectral problems. Examples of specific goals that we will pursue are *Establish the thermodynamic properties of matter coupled to electromagnetic fields *Derive GL theory as a limit of BCS theory *Estimate ionization energies of large atoms and molecules *Derive spectral estimates of Lieb-Thirring type for 2D anyons *Derive semiclassical expansions for problems with low regularity

Keywords: bose and fermi gases,bose-einstein condensation,superconductvity/fluidity,non-linear variational problems,semiclassical expansions,spectral estimates
ADVANCING GOLD CATALYSIS (CATGOLD)

Framework: FP7 — Ideas
Programme: European Research Council
Theme: European research council
Destination: Advanced grants
Action type: Support for frontier research (ERC)
Panel: Materials and Synthesis
Countries involved: Spain
Call:  (ERC-2012-ADG_20120216, 2012)
Start date: 2013-03-01
End date: 2018-02-28
Duration (months): 60.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2499060.0
EU funding (EUR): 2499060.0
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

We plan to chase new goals by exploring the limits of gold chemistry and organic synthesis. A major goal is to promote copper to the level of gold as the catalyst of choice for the activation of alkynes under homogeneous conditions. Another major goal is to develop enantioselective reactions based on a new chiral catalyst design to overcome the inherent limitations of the linear coordination of d10 M(I) coinage metals. We whish to contribute to bridge the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous gold catalysis discovering new reactions for C-C bond formation via cross-coupling and C-H activation. We will apply new methods based on Au catalysis to fill the gap that exists between chemical synthesis and physical methods such as graphite exfoliation or laser ablation for the synthesis of nanographenes and other large acenes.

Keywords: gold-catalysis. copper-catalysis. c-h activation. carbenes. cross-coupling. polyarenes. nanographenes.