Projects at a Glance

  • OXIREC - Modelling Oxide Interfacial Reconstruction

    One of the most challenging problems in material science is establishing a relation between material’s properties and interfacial structure.

  • ESC2RAD- Enabling Smart Computations to study space RADiation effects

    This project aims at establishing a fundamental and applied research program via the set up of a new “virtual modeling lab” which will open the path towards a change of paradigm in the modelling of Space Weather impact.

  • R-I PEERS- Pilot experiences for improving gender equality in research organisations

    The R&I PEERS project will be based on the concept of gender equality, that can be expressed as “women and men enjoy the same status and have equal opportunity to realize their full human rights and potential to contribute to national, political, economic, social and cultural development, and to benefit from the results”.
  • Graphene Core 2- Graphene Flagship Core Project 2

    This project is the third stage of the EC-funded part of the Graphene Flagship. It builds upon the results achieved in the ramp-up phase (2013 - 2016) and the first core project (2016 - 2018), and covers the period April 2018 - March 2020.
  • NS-PC - New frontier of nano-space using protein crystals for telecommunication and medical applications

    Nano-spaces based on organic molecules, including porous coordination polymers and metal-organic frameworks (PCP/MOF), find applications in storage, separation, and transport. Protein crystals offer larger nano-spaces (4.5-100 nm) and biocompatibility. The NS-PC project focuses on synthesizing, characterizing, and applying protein crystals, utilizing cage-shaped proteins to confine organic molecules or nanoparticles. Peptide-functionalized proteins enable crystalization through conventional and gene-engineered methods, forming binary or ternary protein crystals. These crystals could serve as containers for molecules or scaffolds for nanostructures. Protein crystals are proposed for developing periodic magnetic nanostructures, aiding magnon physics and microwave device innovation. Biocompatibility opens avenues for drug delivery and imaging agents, potentially revolutionizing healthcare with larger-capacity carriers. The project bridges fundamental research and practical applications.

  • PETER-Plasmon Enhanced Terahertz Electron Paramagnetic Resonance

    We propose to establish Plasmon -enhanced Terahertz Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectroscopy and scanning microscopy as a unique Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) platform for high-sensitivity local analysis of paramagnetic organic and inorganic species and materials. Here, we will deliver novel hardware and infrastructure providing ground-breaking innovation in the magnetic sensing and imaging.
  • HYCOAT - A European Training Network for Functional Hybrid Coatings by Molecular Layer Deposition

    Thin films of hybrid materials engineered at the molecular scale can enable breakthroughs in several economically and socially relevant technological application areas including packaging & encapsulation, electronics, batteries and biomedical applications. With self-limiting binary reactions, Molecular Layer Deposition (MLD) is the ideal deposition technique for growing ultra-thin, uniform, conformal hybrid films with precise and flexible control over the film thickness and molecular-scale chemical composition. The key objective of HYCOAT is to create a group of exceptionally well-trained young researchers who have a deep understanding of all aspects of MLD technology, as well as broad vision on the application potential of hybrid coatings.
  • 2D-TopSpIn - Spin detection and control in van der Waals materials for the design of spintronic devices.

    The experimental confirmation of 2D topological insulators (2D-TI) with unique conductivity properties in 2007 has potential for advanced quantum computers and spintronic devices. Topological insulators conduct at the edge, offering scattering-free, spin-polarized channels crucial for dissipationless electronics. Challenges persist in practical device creation due to technical complexities. Discovery of 2D-TI phases in TMD materials like 1T-WTe2 enables van der Waals heterostructures, promising high-performance electronics and quantum computing applications. This proposal aims to engineer a spintronic device through rationalized heterostructure design, local and mesoscopic property characterization, and multiscale imaging and transport studies.