Waste heat—the rejected by-product of all energy conversion processes—remains a huge and unexplored reservoir of green energy. It is estimated that two-thirds of the 160 TWh required for global power consumption is lost to the environment each year. Converting even a fraction of this wasted energy into electricity at the cost of 10 cents per kWh would generate a new EUR 1.0 trillion industry—creating jobs, boosting the economy, and increasing energy efficiency.

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

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.

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.

MATBIOCAT focuses on merging synthetic materials with biomolecules to create functional nanostructures, enhancing performance in extreme conditions for biotransformation processes. The aim is to improve biocatalyst stability in organic solvents, high temperatures, and extreme pH values. Three main sections involve enzyme encapsulation in polymeric networks, designing metal-based nano/microstructures, and creating enzymatic bioreactors. Collaboration across enzymology, polymer chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and material science contributes to this multidisciplinary effort. Challenges include ordered placement of biocatalysts in stable films or microstructures to preserve catalytic performance. The project's ultimate goal is to develop advanced biomaterials with improved enzymatic function, holding potential for various applications.