The objective of this project is to assist Albania in the preparation and submission of its First Biennial Transparency Report and a combined Second Biennial Transparency and Fifth National Communication Report for the fulfillment of the obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement (PA), in line with the Modalities, Procedures and Guidelines for the transparency framework for action and support referred to in Article 13 of the Paris Agreement (Decision 18/CMA .1) and the guidance on operationalizing the Modalities, Procedures and Guidelines (MPGs) as per Decision 5/CMA.3. The project will support Albania in achieving its global environment concerns and commitments to international conventions, and to integrate climate change considerations in national development planning and policy through ensuring continuity of the institutional and technical capacity building, partly initiated, and consequently sustained by reporting instruments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

By 2030, to establish and implement a national Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) framework in Thailand that strengthens legal and institutional capacities, engages at least 6,500 community members (50% women) in equitable ABS initiatives, improves the management of 62,662 ha of forest landscapes, and contributes to biodiversity conservation, sustainable use, and fair benefit-sharing, in alignment with the Nagoya Protocol and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)

The objective of this project is to assist the Government of Costa Rica in the preparation and submission of the combined Fifth National Communication and Second Biennial Transparency Report (5NC/2BTR) and the Third Biennial Transparency Report (3BTR) for the fulfillment of the obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement (PA), in line with the Modalities, procedures and guidelines for the transparency framework for action and support referred to in Article 13 of the Paris Agreement (Decision 18/CMA .1) and the guidance on operationalizing the MPGs as per Decision 5/CMA.3. The project will support Costa Rica in achieving its global environment concerns and commitments to international conventions, and to integrate climate change considerations in national development planning and policy through ensuring continuity of the institutional and technical capacity building, partly initiated, and consequently sustained by reporting instruments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The document outlines a proposal for funding under the GEF-8 program for the preparation of São Tomé and Príncipe's first Biennial Transparency Report (BTR1) to comply with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The project, led by the Ministry of Environment, aims to enhance the country's capacity to meet its reporting obligations under the Paris Agreement while aligning with national development goals. The total cost of the enabling activity is $600,000, with funding sourced from the GEF-8 program trust fund. The project is expected to last 24 months, starting on March 1, 2025, with the BTR1 submission due by December 30, 2026. The primary objective is to prepare the BTR1 through gender-sensitive processes, ensuring that it addresses capacity-building needs identified in previous national communications and reports. The project will produce a national inventory report of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from 2012 to 2022, track progress on the country's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), and provide information on climate change impacts and adaptation efforts. It will also include details on financial and technological support received and needed. The project is designed to foster sustainable reporting processes and institutionalize GHG inventory practices within the government. It will involve training and capacity development in various areas, including data collection, uncertainty analysis, and the establishment of a domestic monitoring, reporting, and verification system. The proposal emphasizes the importance of inter-institutional coordination and collaboration with national statistics institutes to enhance climate transparency efforts. Overall, the initiative aims to strengthen São Tomé and Príncipe's ability to report on climate actions and contribute to global climate goals.

In response to outcomes of COP 15 of UNCCD, decisions 9 and 11 of COP15, this project aims to support eligible countries to utilize GEF resources for implementing the Convention and the UNCCD Strategy (2018-2030), which is a comprehensive global commitment to avoid and reduce desertification and land degradation and to restore the productivity of degraded land to achieve Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN). The project will support Parties to enhance their national-level institutions and technical capacities for effective and timely preparation and submission of the 2026 UNCCD national reports. To achieve this, the project will offer technical support to the UNCCD National Focal Points, equipping them with the technical tools to collect data and submit national reports through the Performance Review and Assessment of Implementation System (PRAIS) reporting tool.

The project titled The Freshwater Challenge: Accelerating Restoration and Conservation of Freshwater Ecosystems aims to address critical issues related to freshwater ecosystems through a comprehensive approach involving 47 national governments and the European Union. The project has been deemed eligible for GEF funding, with a well-articulated summary that outlines the problem, objectives, and strategies to achieve global environmental benefits (GEBs). The project is structured around four key components designed to empower young professionals and facilitate cross-country learning exchanges, ensuring that gender dimensions and monitoring are integrated into its framework. The project rationale includes a thorough situation analysis that identifies barriers to effective freshwater management, such as policy incoherence and inadequate valuation of ecosystem services. The theory of change is clearly defined, emphasizing a systems approach that incorporates diverse stakeholder perspectives, including gender equality and youth engagement. The project also outlines an implementation framework that details the roles of various partners and the importance of collaboration with existing initiatives. Overall, the project is positioned as a vital step towards enhancing the resilience of freshwater ecosystems, with a commitment to addressing gender-specific outcomes and leveraging past experiences to inform future actions.

The project titled Local Investment and Action for Climate Resilient, Water Secure and Healthy Farming Communities in Timor Leste aims to address climate change impacts and enhance water security in farming communities. The project is eligible for GEF funding and has been reviewed for its objectives, strategies, and expected outcomes. The landscape-scale approach initially mentioned has been revised to a water security framework approach, as the project is limited in scale and cannot fully implement a landscape approach. The project emphasizes carbon and biodiversity financing as mechanisms to support climate adaptation, with a focus on developing sustainable financial incentives for community-level investments in biodiversity restoration. The project objectives and components have been clarified, particularly regarding innovative financing mechanisms and their connection to adaptation goals. The gender analysis and action plan will be integrated into the project to ensure gender perspectives are reflected in the components and budget. The project rationale includes a thorough situation analysis of environmental challenges and identifies barriers and enablers for implementation. The theory of change outlines the project logic and expected outcomes, with a focus on linking carbon credits and ecosystem services to community-led catchment restoration. The project will coordinate with ongoing initiatives in Timor Leste, including the Rural Resilience and Livelihood Improvement Project, to enhance synergies and learning. Overall, the project aims to foster climate resilience and water security through integrated approaches, while addressing gender considerations and ensuring adequate funding for its components.

The project titled promoting the safe and effective use of treated wastewater and sludge aims to enhance soil quality, combat land degradation, and address climate change in Türkiye. The project has been reviewed for eligibility for GEF funding, and it meets the necessary criteria. The project summary effectively outlines the issues to be addressed, the objectives, and the strategies for achieving global environmental benefits (GEBs) and adaptation outcomes. The project components are well-defined and adequately funded, with attention to gender dimensions and monitoring and evaluation plans. A stakeholder engagement plan will be developed to ensure participation from relevant institutions and organizations, and a theory of change has been established to guide the project’s logic and expected outcomes. The project also includes a comprehensive risk assessment, identifying potential environmental and social risks and outlining mitigation measures. It aligns with GEF-8 programming strategies and national priorities, ensuring coherence with existing policies and frameworks. Overall, the project is positioned to be transformative, innovative, and capable of scaling up its impacts while contributing to policy coherence and improved environmental management.

The document outlines a proposal for funding under the GEF-8 program for the development of a national action plan for the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector in the Philippines. The project, identified as GEF enabling activity ID 11825, aims to assist the Philippine government in creating this plan, raising awareness about the Minamata Convention, and building national capacity for its early implementation. The project is expected to last 24 months, starting on January 1, 2025, with a total funding request of $500,000. The enabling activity consists of three main components: global technical support for the national action plan (NAP) development, the actual development of the NAP, and monitoring and evaluation. The first component focuses on providing training and guidance to stakeholders, enhancing expert resources, and facilitating knowledge management. The second component involves organizing workshops, developing a national overview of the ASGM sector, and finalizing the NAP through consultations and training, ensuring gender considerations are integrated throughout the process. The third component emphasizes regular reporting on project implementation and the creation of an independent operational completion report. The Philippines, having ratified the Minamata Convention, is obligated to develop a NAP due to the significant role of ASGM in the country, where over 500,000 individuals depend on it for their livelihoods. The project will build on previous assessments and initiatives related to ASGM, addressing the health and environmental challenges posed by mercury emissions. The institutional framework for the project includes UNEP as the implementing agency and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as the executing agency, which will collaborate with external organizations for effective project management.

Regional Coordination Resilience Enhancement through Adaptation in the Pacific (REAP)

The objective of the Enabling Activity (EA) grant is to support countries in: (a) assessing the extent to which their current legal, policy and institutional framework allows for promptly becoming parties to the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) and enables their implementation of the Agreement; (b) carrying out preparatory work in the context of their ratification, approval, acceptance or accession process towards becoming parties to the BBNJ Agreement; and (c) supporting their readiness to implement the BBNJ Agreement.

The objective of this Enabling Activity (EA) grant is to support countries in: (a) assessing the extent to which their current legal, policy and institutional framework allows for promptly becoming parties to the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) and enables their implementation of the Agreement; (b) carrying out preparatory work in the context of their ratification, approval, acceptance or accession process towards becoming parties to the BBNJ Agreement; and (c) supporting their readiness to implement the BBNJ Agreement.

The project titled Enhancing Climate Change Adaptation of Local Communities in the Plateaux Region of Togo aims to implement climate-resilient integrated landscape management to address the challenges posed by climate change. The project has been reviewed for eligibility for GEF funding and has received positive feedback regarding its objectives, strategies, and expected outcomes. The project summary effectively outlines the problems to be addressed, including climate vulnerability and environmental degradation, while also detailing the strategies to achieve adaptation benefits. The project components are deemed sound and appropriate, particularly the focus on financial inclusion and microfinance, which are essential for supporting smallholder farmers. Recommendations have been made to enhance the efficiency of financial intermediaries through digitalization and to ensure equitable loan terms. The project also incorporates gender dimensions and includes provisions for knowledge management and monitoring and evaluation. The rationale for the project is well-articulated, highlighting the need for resilience against future climate changes and the importance of stakeholder engagement. The project aligns with both GEF-8 programming strategies and national priorities, ensuring coherence with regional policies. Overall, the project is positioned to be transformative, innovative, and capable of scaling up, contributing to improved policy alignment and addressing biodiversity targets as outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

The project titled Conservation of Endangered Cold Water Fish Species for Sustainable Livelihoods of Fishing Communities in the Middle Trishuli River Basin, Central Nepal aims to address the conservation of endangered fish species while supporting the livelihoods of local fishing communities. The project, which has been reviewed for eligibility for GBFF funding, is led by the FAO and is part of the GEF-8 project preparation grant request. The review process includes an assessment of the project's objectives, components, funding adequacy, and alignment with biodiversity strategies. The project rationale outlines the current conditions in the project area, the problems it seeks to address, and the expected global environmental benefits, particularly in relation to biodiversity core indicators. The project description includes a theory of change that details how the project components will contribute to its objectives, alongside a list of stakeholders involved in its implementation. The proposal emphasizes the potential to generate global environmental benefits and its alignment with national biodiversity strategies, while also highlighting the importance of policy coherence and resource mobilization from the private sector. The project aims to engage with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs), ensuring their involvement in project activities, although concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of resource allocation to these communities. The review also pointed out inconsistencies in the financing tables that need to be corrected before resubmission. The project has been recommended for technical clearance, with additional comments suggesting a stronger focus on policy coherence and the integration of conservation efforts across agricultural and environmental sectors. The project is expected to contribute significantly to the conservation of biodiversity while enhancing the livelihoods of local communities, provided that the necessary adjustments and clarifications are made in the project documentation.

Strengthen the capacity of Honduras to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS), and the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, while fostering sustainable bio-businesses that contribute to biodiversity conservation and economic growth in key productive sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.

The project titled 'Strengthening the Ecological and Economic Functions of Critical Biodiversity Habitats of the N'zi Voluntary Nature Reserve' in Côte d'Ivoire aims to enhance biodiversity and economic sustainability within the N'zi reserve. The project has undergone a review process, with comments from the secretariat and the agency indicating that it meets eligibility criteria for GBFF funding. The project objectives are clearly stated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate for achieving these objectives. However, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and the alignment of project financing with the limits set forth in the letter of endorsement (loe). The project rationale effectively describes the current conditions, problems to be addressed, and expected results, including global environmental benefits. The theory of change is concise, outlining how project elements will contribute to its objectives. Stakeholder involvement is acknowledged, and the project aligns with specific action areas aimed at biodiversity conservation. The proposal also meets criteria for generating global environmental benefits (GEBs) and aligns with national biodiversity strategies. Despite these strengths, the project requires revisions in financial details, particularly regarding co-financing and the allocation of funds to support Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The project is encouraged to consolidate private sector co-financing and develop a financial mechanism for long-term biodiversity conservation funding through eco-tourism. Additionally, the project should expand its scope to address land use pressures surrounding the reserve and include a clearer pathway for replication of its model in Côte d'Ivoire. The project is recommended for technical clearance, contingent upon addressing financial comments and resubmitting for further consideration.

The project titled Ecoharmony RD aims to advance OECMs (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures) for biodiversity integration in the landscapes of the Dominican Republic. The project has been reviewed for eligibility under the GBFF (Global Biodiversity Framework Fund) and has received clearance from both the secretariat and the agency. The project objectives are clearly stated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate and sufficiently clear to achieve these objectives. The project is adequately funded, with financing and co-financing contributions proportional to the project management costs, which are within acceptable limits. The project rationale effectively describes the current baseline conditions, the problems it aims to address, and the expected results, including global environmental benefits and contributions to biodiversity core indicators. A concise theory of change outlines the project logic, detailing how design elements will contribute to the objectives and the expected causal pathways. Stakeholders involved in the project are identified, along with their roles in design and implementation. The proposal meets several criteria, including the potential to generate global environmental benefits, alignment with national biodiversity strategies, and the level of policy coherence across various sectors. It also addresses the mobilization of private sector resources and engagement with Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLCs). The project results indicators and financing tables are correctly populated and consistent with the project description. The project has been endorsed by the relevant country officials, and the endorsement letters are properly formatted and uploaded. The GEF Secretariat recommends the project preparation grant for technical clearance, with additional comments emphasizing the need for clarity on the involvement of IPLCs in project activities. The review process includes multiple stages, ensuring thorough evaluation and preparation for the project's implementation.

The project titled sustainable financing and inclusive management to perpetuate Madagascar's locally managed marine areas aims to enhance biodiversity through effective management and financing strategies. The project has undergone a thorough review process, with the GEF ID 11802 being evaluated for eligibility and alignment with the GBFF funding criteria. The project objectives are clearly defined, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve these objectives. The project rationale effectively outlines the current conditions, problems to be addressed, and expected results, including global environmental benefits and contributions to biodiversity indicators. The theory of change is well-articulated, detailing how project elements will contribute to the overall goals, and a comprehensive list of stakeholders involved in the project has been provided. The proposal also meets essential criteria, such as the potential to generate global environmental benefits, alignment with national biodiversity strategies, and the mobilization of private sector resources. The project has been endorsed by the relevant authorities, and necessary adjustments have been made to ensure consistency in documentation. The GEF project financing tables have been correctly populated, and the project is recommended for technical clearance, pending the resolution of specific comments regarding the involvement of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The project documentation must accurately reflect the roles of IPLCs and ensure that their contributions are appropriately recognized. Overall, the project is positioned to support sustainable marine management in Madagascar, with a focus on inclusivity and biodiversity conservation.

The project titled Enhancing Participatory Conservation and Restoration of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Ethiopia aims to address critical biodiversity issues in Ethiopia through a participatory approach. The project has been reviewed for eligibility under the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) and has received clearance from the secretariat as of December 9, 2024. The project objectives are clearly defined, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve these objectives. The project rationale effectively outlines the current conditions, problems to be addressed, and expected results, including contributions to global environmental benefits and biodiversity indicators. The project description includes a concise theory of change that illustrates how the project design will lead to the desired outcomes, along with a list of stakeholders involved in the project. It meets several criteria, such as the potential to generate Global Environmental Benefits (GEBs), alignment with national biodiversity strategies, and the mobilization of resources from the private sector. The project financing tables have been correctly populated, and the endorsement process has been followed, with necessary adjustments made to the letters of endorsement. However, the project requires further refinement in specific areas. It must remove funding for ex-situ conservation activities, as these are not eligible under the GBFF. Additionally, the approach to alternative livelihoods needs careful assessment, as evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. The project should ensure that the reported support for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) corresponds accurately to project activities and that IPLCs are actively involved in project management. The review emphasizes the importance of embedding IPLC participation in project design and management mechanisms. Overall, the project is recommended for technical clearance, provided that these adjustments are made.

The project titled sustainable management of biodiversity and natural resources in the Bolivian Altiplano, associated with the production of South American camelids, has been reviewed for eligibility for GBFF funding. The project aims to address current environmental challenges and enhance biodiversity in the region. The project objective is clearly stated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve this objective. The project has been cleared for funding, with adequate financial support and proportional contributions to project management costs. The project rationale effectively describes the baseline conditions, the problems to be addressed, and the expected results, including global environmental benefits and contributions to biodiversity indicators. A concise theory of change outlines the project logic, detailing how design elements will contribute to the objectives and the expected causal pathways. Stakeholder involvement is clearly defined, and the project aligns with specific action areas aimed at achieving biodiversity objectives. The proposal meets several criteria, including the potential to generate global environmental benefits, alignment with national biodiversity strategies, and the level of policy coherence across various sectors. The project is expected to mobilize resources from the private sector and engage with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The project results indicators and financing tables have been correctly populated, ensuring consistency with the project description. Endorsements from the relevant countries have been verified, and the project has been recommended for technical clearance. However, the agency has requested further clarification on specific biodiversity benefits, alignment with national strategies, policy coherence, and the role of IPLCs in project activities. The project documentation must accurately reflect the contributions of IPLCs and ensure that their involvement goes beyond mere beneficiary status. Overall, the project is positioned to support sustainable biodiversity management in the Bolivian Altiplano effectively.

The project titled Biomanglar aims to empower collective territories in Colombia through the conservation, sustainable use, and restoration of mangroves, contributing to the country's national biodiversity strategy. The project, identified by GEF ID 11797, is under review for a GEF-8 project preparation grant and has received comments from the secretariat and agency, indicating that it meets the eligibility criteria for funding. The project objectives are clearly stated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve these objectives. The project rationale effectively describes the current conditions, the problems to be addressed, and the expected results, including global environmental benefits and contributions to biodiversity indicators. The project includes a concise theory of change that outlines the logic behind the project design and its expected impacts. Stakeholder involvement is clearly defined, and the project aligns with specific action areas to support biodiversity objectives. It is noted that the project has the potential to generate global environmental benefits and aligns with national biodiversity strategies, demonstrating policy coherence and coordination across various sectors. The project also aims to mobilize private sector resources and engage with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The project financing tables have been correctly populated, and the endorsement process has been followed, with necessary adjustments made to the monitoring and evaluation component to meet funding thresholds. Overall, the project has received technical clearance recommendations, with minor revisions requested regarding the monitoring component and the executing agency's name. The review process is ongoing, with additional reviews scheduled as necessary.

The project titled empowering indigenous peoples and local communities for improved biodiversity stewardship in the Solomon Islands aims to enhance biodiversity management through the active involvement of local communities. The project has undergone a thorough review process, with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) ID 11795, and is categorized under the biodiversity focal area as a project preparation grant. The review confirmed that the project meets the eligibility criteria for GEF funding, with all general project information correctly populated. The project objectives are clearly stated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve these objectives. The project rationale effectively outlines the current conditions, problems to be addressed, goals, and expected results, including contributions to biodiversity core indicators. The project description includes a concise theory of change that illustrates the project logic and expected causal pathways. Stakeholder involvement is clearly defined, and the project aligns with specific action areas aimed at achieving biodiversity objectives. The proposal also meets criteria for generating global environmental benefits and aligns with national biodiversity strategies. The financing tables have been reviewed and corrected for consistency, ensuring that co-financing sources align with GEF policies. The project has received endorsements from the relevant country officials, and necessary adjustments have been made to ensure consistency between the portal and endorsement letters. The GEF Secretariat has recommended the project preparation grant for technical clearance, emphasizing the importance of accurately reporting the involvement of indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs) in project activities. The project documentation must clearly describe the roles of IPLCs and ensure that activities supporting them are appropriately accounted for. Overall, the project is positioned for further consideration in the GEF selection process, with a focus on enhancing biodiversity stewardship through community empowerment.

The project titled Strengthening Biodiversity in Agriculture, Restoring Ecosystem Resilience, and Empowering IPLCs in Lao PDR aims to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience while supporting Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The project, under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) framework, has undergone a review process to assess its eligibility for funding, project objectives, and overall design. Key aspects of the review include evaluating whether the project meets the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) criteria, the clarity of its objectives, and the adequacy of its funding components. The project rationale outlines the current environmental conditions, the problems it seeks to address, and the expected global environmental benefits, particularly in relation to biodiversity core indicators. The project description includes a theory of change that connects project activities to desired outcomes, identifies stakeholders, and aligns with specific action areas. The proposal emphasizes the potential for generating global environmental benefits and its alignment with national biodiversity strategies. The review also scrutinizes project financing, ensuring that co-financing sources are consistent with GEF policies. Endorsements from relevant country officials are required, and any discrepancies in project documentation must be corrected. The project has been recommended for technical clearance, with specific comments urging clarity on biodiversity outcomes and the role of IPLCs in project activities. The review process is ongoing, with additional assessments scheduled to ensure compliance and alignment with GEF objectives.

The project titled Conservation and Sustainable Use of Threatened Coastal and Inland Fish Species aims to enhance the sustainable livelihood of fishing and farming communities in Cuba by addressing the conservation of threatened fish species. The project has undergone a review process by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as the executing agency. The review assesses the project's eligibility for GBFF funding, ensuring that the project objectives are clearly stated and that the components, outcomes, and outputs are sound and adequately funded. The project rationale includes a detailed description of the current conditions, the problems to be addressed, and the expected global environmental benefits, particularly in relation to biodiversity core indicators. The project description outlines a theory of change that connects project activities to objectives, identifies stakeholders, and aligns with specific action areas. It emphasizes the potential to generate global environmental benefits (GEBs) and its alignment with national biodiversity strategies. The project also aims to mobilize resources from the private sector and engage with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The review process includes checks on project financing, endorsement by relevant authorities, and the consistency of project documentation. The GEF Secretariat has recommended the project for technical clearance, provided that certain comments are addressed, particularly regarding the accurate representation of IPLCs in project activities. The project is expected to contribute significantly to the conservation of biodiversity while supporting the livelihoods of local communities. The review dates indicate ongoing assessments to ensure compliance and effectiveness in project preparation.

The project titled empowering indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs) for the sustainable management and conservation of 700,000 hectares of critical ecosystems in three highland provinces of Papua New Guinea aims to enhance biodiversity through the active involvement of local communities. The project has undergone a thorough review process, confirming its eligibility for GBFF funding and ensuring that all project information is accurately populated. The project objectives are clearly defined, with sound components and expected outcomes that align with the goals of biodiversity conservation. The project rationale effectively outlines the current conditions, the problems to be addressed, and the anticipated global environmental benefits, including contributions to biodiversity core indicators. The project description includes a concise theory of change, detailing how various design elements will contribute to the overall objectives, and identifies key stakeholders involved in the project. It also emphasizes the potential for generating global environmental benefits (GEBs) and aligns with national biodiversity strategies. The financing tables have been correctly populated, ensuring that co-financing sources meet the necessary guidelines. The project has received endorsement from the relevant authorities, although a minor discrepancy in the project title was noted and subsequently corrected. The GEFSEC decision recommends the project preparation grant (PPG) for technical clearance, with additional comments for the agency to consider during project preparation. These include ensuring that the reported amounts supporting IPLCs correspond to actual project activities, establishing targets related to Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs), and accurately measuring anticipated climate mitigation co-benefits. The project is also advised to develop a policy framework for biodiversity offsets that ensures net biodiversity gains. Overall, the project is positioned to significantly contribute to the sustainable management of biodiversity in Papua New Guinea while empowering local communities.

The project titled Conservation of Biodiversity, Its Sustainable Use, Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits in India (Conserve), with GEF ID 11784, aims to address biodiversity conservation in India through a collaborative effort involving UNDP and the World Bank. The project has undergone a review process, with comments and recommendations provided by the secretariat and agencies involved. The project is evaluated for its eligibility for GBFF funding, clarity of objectives, adequacy of funding, and alignment with national biodiversity strategies. The project rationale includes a description of the current conditions, problems to be addressed, and expected results, emphasizing the generation of global environmental benefits (GEBs). The project description outlines a theory of change that connects project activities to objectives, identifies stakeholders, and aligns with specific action areas. The proposal is assessed for its potential to generate GEBs, policy coherence, resource mobilization from the private sector, and engagement with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The project results indicators and financing tables are reviewed for accuracy and consistency. The GEFSEC decision recommends the project for technical clearance, with specific comments for project preparation, including the need for clear implementation arrangements between UNDP and the World Bank, justification for monitoring activities, and a thorough baseline analysis. The project is expected to allocate significant resources to support IPLCs, ensuring that the funds directly benefit these communities. Additionally, the project aims to achieve substantial impacts on biodiversity, with a focus on cost-efficiency and measurable outcomes related to biodiversity conservation and climate mitigation. Overall, the project seeks to enhance biodiversity conservation efforts in India while ensuring fair and equitable benefit-sharing among stakeholders.

Government entities, local community groups and indigenous peoples effectively and sustainably create and manage a marine corridor between Cahuita National Park (NP) and the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge (WR) to improve the restoration and connectivity of key ecosystems in Costa Rica's southern Caribbean and diversify the income of local communities and indigenous peoples in the area.

The project titled Mainstreaming Biodiversity into Botswana's Financial Sector (MBBF) aims to integrate biodiversity considerations into the financial sector of Botswana. The project has been reviewed for eligibility for GEF-8 funding, with the review process completed by the program manager, Jurgis Sapijanskas, on December 6, 2024. The project objectives are clearly stated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve these objectives. The project rationale effectively describes the current conditions, the problems to be addressed, and the expected results, including contributions to global environmental benefits and biodiversity core indicators. The project includes a concise theory of change that outlines the project logic and expected causal pathways. Stakeholder involvement is identified, and the project aligns with specific action areas to support their objectives. It is noted that the project has the potential to generate significant global environmental benefits and aligns with national biodiversity strategies. The project aims to enhance policy coherence and coordination among various sectors and mobilize resources from the private sector and philanthropies. The project financing tables have been correctly populated, and the endorsement process has been verified, ensuring that the project has the necessary support from the relevant authorities. The project is recommended for technical clearance, with suggestions for ensuring the participation of the Ministry of Finance and the financial regulator. It is emphasized that the contributions to support Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) must be clearly defined and aligned with project activities. The project should also clarify the scope of "green finance" and ensure that funding is directed towards aligning financial flows with biodiversity goals. Overall, the project is positioned to make significant contributions to biodiversity conservation in Botswana.

The project titled Transforming the Global Biodiversity Framework into Tangible Action in Madagascar - Biotact aims to implement biodiversity actions in Madagascar, with a focus on generating global environmental benefits (GEBs) and aligning with national biodiversity strategies. The project has undergone a thorough review process, with comments from the secretariat and the agency indicating that it meets the eligibility criteria for GBFF funding. The project objectives are clearly stated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve these objectives. The project rationale effectively describes the current conditions, the problems to be addressed, and the expected results, including contributions to biodiversity core indicators. The theory of change is concise, outlining how project design elements will contribute to the objectives, and stakeholders involved in the project are identified. The proposal also meets criteria for generating GEBs, aligning with national priorities, and engaging with indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs). The project financing tables have been correctly populated, and the endorsement process has been followed, with necessary adjustments made to comply with feedback regarding the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) component, which was reduced to meet the recommended threshold. Overall, the project is recommended for technical clearance, with suggestions for further detailing targeted marine protected areas and ensuring that the support for IPLCs is accurately represented in project documentation. The review process has been comprehensive, with multiple rounds of feedback leading to necessary revisions, ensuring that the project is well-prepared for implementation.

The project titled sustainable restoration and conservation of the Malagarasi-Moyowosi wetland ecosystem in Tanzania aims to implement an integrated approach to enhance biodiversity and environmental sustainability. The project has undergone a thorough review process, with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) ID 11769 and is categorized under the GEF-8 project preparation grant. The review, completed by the program manager on December 10, 2024, confirmed that the project meets the eligibility criteria for GEF funding, with all necessary information correctly populated in the general project information table. The project objectives are clearly articulated, and the components, outcomes, and outputs are deemed appropriate to achieve these objectives. The financing structure is also aligned with GEF guidelines, ensuring that the project management costs remain within acceptable limits. The project rationale effectively outlines the current conditions of the wetland ecosystem, the problems it aims to address, and the expected global environmental benefits, including contributions to biodiversity core indicators. A concise theory of change has been established, detailing how project activities will lead to desired outcomes, and a comprehensive list of stakeholders involved in the project has been provided. The proposal emphasizes the potential for generating global environmental benefits (GEBs) and aligns with national biodiversity strategies, ensuring policy coherence across various sectors. The project financing tables have been reviewed and found to be correctly populated, with expected amounts and sources of co-financing consistent with GEF policies. Endorsements from relevant country officials have been secured, although a minor discrepancy regarding the executing partner information was noted and subsequently corrected. The GEF Secretariat has recommended the project for technical clearance, with additional comments for consideration during project preparation. These include ensuring that the support for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) is accurately represented and that alternative livelihood interventions are carefully assessed for their effectiveness in delivering environmental benefits. Furthermore, the project is encouraged to enhance its approach to protected area management by conducting a detailed baseline analysis and increasing the budget for related interventions. In response to the review comments, the UNDP has made necessary updates to the project documentation, ensuring alignment with the feedback received. Overall, the project is positioned to significantly contribute to the sustainable management and conservation of the Malagarasi-Moyowosi wetland ecosystem, with a strong focus on biodiversity and community engagement.

Honeybees are important pollinators and support various important ecosystems with their ecological services. Rapid anthropogenic changes cause disruptive disturbances of their habitats which are currently endangering honeybee colonies around the world and incurring an immense financial toll.We aim to help the bees in coping with these adverse environmental factors by establishing technologies in and around a futuristic honeybee colony that allow the colony to perform well in very challenging environments, for example within high-precision farming, including monocultural agriculture involving pesticide, within smart cities of the future and within highly industrialized areas.We aim to make technologies available to honeybees that are naturally inaccessible for them (internet, databases, satellite data, robots...) and to feed information collected by bees through these channels back to humans and other hives. This collection of hives, technologies and humans is called HIVEOPOLIS in our concept.HIVEOPOLIS technology will be integrated in a way that it provides a synergistic added value to the colony, to its owner and to society in general. It will be sustainable from the ecological point of view and also from the intellectual point of view (open software, open hardware, open data, citizen scientists).Our society will benefit from the pollination services and other bee-derived services and products, in a more stable and controllable way, even in harsher ecological conditions of the future.The emphasis on community-forming activities of the project will bring together makers, beekeepers, farmers, programmers, environmentalists, educators and many other stakeholders.Ultimately, HIVEOPOLIS will bring honeybee societies into a new future and will integrate them into the hearts of our own future smart cities.

Nowadays, the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production is insufficient to cover the growing needs of the aviation sector. The European Commission has set a target for fuels supplied to EU airports to contain 70% SAF by 2050, representing a quantity of 40 million tons of SAF.To address this challenge, UNiCSAFe aims at developing new efficient and sustainable catalysts for alkylbenzene synthesis (SAF precursor). Alkylbenzene are synthesized by oligomerization of ethylene followed by Friedel Crafts alkylation of aromatic compounds (both precursors can be produced from biosources or CO2).All effective processes described in the literature are based on homogeneous catalysts (with a large excess of AlCl3) which prevents the easy separation of catalyst from the desired SAF precursor. To circumvent this, the Surface Organometallic Chemistry (SOMC), combining the advantages of both heterogeneous and molecular chemistry (well-defined catalysts that can be easily recycled), is a powerful approach that will allow the synthesis of new supported nickel catalysts for the tandem ethylene oligomerization/Friedel-Crafts alkylation.The rational development of such catalysts will be tackled by combining experimental and theoretical means. Beyond synthetic work and catalyst evaluation, the project targets a better understanding of the reaction mechanism, allowing fine-tuning of the second generation of catalysts (more efficient, selective and sustainable) for SAF precursor synthesis.In conclusion, UNiCSAFe represents a first step toward the development of a technology for SAF production, which is a gateway to increase the share of renewable energies in aviation industries. The UNiCSAFe project merges advanced organometallic chemistry, including SOMC, catalysis and both experimental and theoretical mechanistic investigation.Thus, it provides an excellent platform to develop and bolster my scientific- and soft-skills, and strengthen my profile to pursue my own independent career.

This research project on Affect, Form and Matter in 17th-Century Lyric Poetry (AFM) aims to trace the formal, material and textu(r)al entanglements of affect in English metaphysical poetry and to find a new methodology of reading (for) affect in literary texts.The project’s fundamental claims are that: Affect is entangled in a text’s form, materiality and cultural-historical contexts. It is a constitutive element of metaphysical poetry and accounts for the particularities of this style of early modern writing.To come to terms with affect’s complex textual entanglements, a new methodology, tentatively called “differential reading,” will be developed. Differential reading is an integrative method that combines approaches from affect studies, new formalism, new materialism and cognitive studies, but also pays heed to the cultural-historical contexts of production and reception that impact on a text’s affectivity.Differential reading will serve as the central approach to metaphysical poetry as well as to poetry by 17th-century women writers who are not typically classified as ‘metaphysical,’ but whose poems show similar affective-stylistic entanglements.The project will result in differential readings of a range of 17th-century poems that will show the centrality of affects to the metaphysical style. Poetic affect will be traced across different modes and motifs that are both key to metaphysical poetry and to the experience of affect, namely: Seeing and hearing as sensory modes of affective encounter. Time and space as affectively inflected modes of perception and orientation. Material objects as cultural-historical sites of affective encounters.Finally, the project will also consider how these poems metapoetically reflect their own engagement with affect. The project’s results will be of use not only for the field of early modern literature, but for researchers in literature and affect and in the wider field of affect studies alike.

The discovery of the green fluorescence protein (GFP) and the parallel development of super-resolved fluorescence microscopy (2008 and 2014 Nobel Prizes) led to major breakthroughs in basic biology and medicine by enabling the visualization of the pathways of individual molecules inside living cells.While optical imaging is limited to studying thin specimens (<1mm) due to light scattering in tissue, the introduction of nanoscale gas vesicles (GVs) as the “GFP for ultrasound” provides an alternative to light for deep tissue cellular imaging. However, current ultrasound imaging methods are bound by the diffraction limit, leading to a resolution of ~100 μm at an ultrasound frequency of 15 MHz. While this allows for the detection of cell populations, signals arising from individual cells cannot be isolated.With this project, my goal is to develop a new super-resolution method for cellular ultrasound imaging. The first application of this method will consist in characterizing cancer microenvironments.Research Objectives First Research Objective: Develop a 3D super resolution method for cellular imaging that relies on nonlinear ultrasound imaging of engineered cells expressing GVs. The grand challenge for super-resolution cellular ultrasound imaging would be to reach a resolution of 10 μm, which is the characteristic length of a single cell. Second Research Objective: Apply this imaging method to preclinical cancer research. The development of super resolution cellular imaging would provide a new tool for drug screening and treatment monitoring, conducted on multi-cellular tumorous spheroid models.The output of this project will be a new ultrasound imaging method for oncology and basic biology research. The successful completion of this project will equip biomedical researchers around the world with a tool to inspect cellular functions deep into opaque tissue.

Several major unmet medical needs, such as autoimmune disorders and neuroinflammatory conditions, are characterized by aberrant Type-1 interferon production. This suggests that new drugs specifically targeting this central inflammatory signaling axis could provide significant value for patients and society.In this project, we will develop the foundation for future commercial exploitation of a class of novel macrocyclic immunosuppressants. These have been shown to possess unprecedented broad inhibitory activities against several innate immunological pathways that converge on the transcription factor IRF3 linked to interferon production.Based on diverse preliminary data that span both cellular biology and chemical synthesis strategies, the planned work aims at securing a strong IP position by providing novel structure-activity relation data on relevant cellular activities linked to IRF3 activity.The project will proceed to identify potential compound leads with favorable pharmacokinetic properties to be pushed forward for future in vivo experiments. The primary focus will be on the ability to permeate the blood-brain barrier to address major neuroinflammatory conditions and on achieving good plasma stability.Alongside the concrete experimental tasks and strengthening of the IP position, a broader business plan and associated funding strategy will be prepared. This involves engagement of key future stakeholders and establishment of an advisory board.Overall, the planned activities serve to make the project ready for a pre-seed investment or acceptance into a biotech accelerator program following completion of the ERC-PoC project.

Macrophages are innate immune cells present in almost every organ of the body. While previously considered to be a homogenous population, thanks to recent advances in single cell technologies, it is clear that each tissue harbours multiple distinct populations of macrophages especially in the context of tissue injury and inflammation.One subset of macrophages that has gained attention recently are the lipid-associated macrophages (LAMs). Originally described in obese adipose tissue, macrophages with very similar phenotypes have since been described across a range of diseased tissues in both the mouse and human.The widespread presence of LAMs across many important human diseases makes them an attractive target for future therapeutic strategies with the potential to improve patient health. However, despite this potential, our understanding of the biology and functionality of LAMs remains in its infancy.Therefore, I hypothesize that gaining a more in-depth understanding of LAMs will enable the design of novel therapeutic approaches which could benefit numerous patients. Thus, this project aims to further our understanding of LAM biology and functionality.We will focus this project on the context of chronic fibrosis of the liver and lung, as fibrosis is a common feature of many diseases and LAMs have been identified in this setting both in the mouse and human.

The promise of organic electron-conducting polymers creates outstanding opportunities for flexible, low-cost, and sustainable optoelectronics and energy storage devices.An emerging class of electron-conducting polymers is non-conjugated radical-containing polymers (RAPs). These are organic polymers with a non-conjugated backbone and pendant-stable radical sites. RAPs successfully transport charges without relying on π-conjugation, instead using redox reactions between the pendant radical groups. This introduces a new paradigm in polymer-based electron transport.However, our understanding of these materials is incomplete and the molecular mechanisms underpinning their properties remain elusive. In E-RADICAL, I will advance our understanding of RAPs through the development of a novel multiscale modeling approach that combines molecular dynamics, quantum dynamical methods, and machine learning.This approach will enable, for the first time, quantum-dynamically accurate and computationally efficient simulations of charge transport in realistic, disordered RAP morphologies. The proposed multiscale approach will be used to perform a comparative study of charge transport in highly conductive RAPs and conjugated polymers, extracting underlying principles governing efficient charge transport.Finally, I will generate the first computational condensed-phase library of RAPs, allowing me to deduce structure-property relationships and formulate design guidelines for this emerging class of materials.In summary, E-RADICAL will provide detailed and unprecedented understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving charge transport in RAPs, thereby informing the rational design of improved materials with ramifications for the development of devices that enable a future with clean and affordable energy.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a critical global health challenge, with limited treatment efficacy, particularly in advanced stages. The rising incidence of HCC is intricately linked to metabolic dysfunctions, such as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and its severe form, metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), highlighting an urgent need for enhanced precision oncology approaches.Despite recent advances, the lack of effective biomarkers and precision therapies for HCC underscores the complexity and heterogeneity of the disease. This proposal aims to address these gaps by integrating cutting-edge bioinformatics tools and genomic data to uncover novel mechanisms of HCC progression and treatment resistance.Objectives Characterizing the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) in HCC, emphasizing cell-type-specific regulatory programs and enhancer-promoter interactions that influence tumor progression and immune evasion. Identifying specific cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) subtypes and their role in patient response to immune-based combination therapies, particularly atezolizumab and bevacizumab. Leveraging whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to pinpoint targetable mutations in regulatory regions, which can guide personalized treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.By analyzing single-cell data and integrating it with whole-genome and RNA sequencing, this project aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of HCC's molecular underpinnings and its interaction with the TME.The expected outcomes include identifying new biomarkers for patient stratification, elucidating the role of CAFs in therapy response, and proposing actionable genomic targets for precision treatment. This research promises to revolutionize HCC management by providing innovative strategies for better-targeted therapies and improving clinical outcomes through enhanced precision oncology methodologies.

Despite their incredible durability, ceramics used are hampered by two limitations: they are difficult to manufacture compared with continuous manufacturing of metals and polymers, and they are brittle, even at relatively high temperature. Both these limitations are coming from their low fracture toughness and the absence of plastic deformation mechanisms.One of the goals of my ERC SSTEEL was to find a way to toughen ceramic composites by introducing strain hardening mechanisms at the nanometric scale. We succeeded and produced a ceramic composite that shows plastic deformation of at least 14% and toughness two orders of magnitude higher, in terms of energy release rate, than conventional structural ceramics at temperatures around 1000°C.These temperatures are close to the ones used to hot forge steel and thus open two new application avenues for these deformable ceramics: Enabling ceramics forging, using preform to produce complex shapes in a quick and simple way. Using this high toughness to produce structural ceramics for high temperature applications, in burners or even engines.The goal of this Proof-of-Concept project is three-fold: To work on the ceramic composition to lower the temperature needed for deformation or improve their high temperature mechanical resistance. To develop the forging of ceramic beyond the initial results to showcase the capabilities to future clients. To start testing the continuous processing of these composites.Succeeding in these goals holds promises for cheaper and faster manufacturing of complex-shaped ceramic parts, opening a wealth of potential applications previously limited to metals or polymers, as well as developing more ductile high temperature structures.

Throughout the nineteenth century, slavery in the Ottoman Empire relied heavily on Black female domestic labor. After the dissolution of the Empire (1922), the descendants of these enslaved Africans remained in the region and eventually became citizens of the Turkish Republic, identifying as Afro-Turks.Despite the significant historical presence, Ottoman slavery is often overlooked in global slavery studies and mainstream Turkish historiography. Today, the Afro-Turk community faces various forms of microaggressions on a daily basis.However, the exclusion of the Ottoman Empire and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) from studies on the legacies of slavery is not just a matter of geography. The neglect of the history of slavery in Turkey and other countries in the region reflects a larger global trend: the long-standing systemic marginalization of gendered domestic work from analyses of the development of capitalism and labor studies.Accordingly, this research has three main objectives: To investigate the erasure of domestic slavery in Ottoman history and its impact on Turkish identity and Afro-Turks’ experiences. To expand the sociological analysis through late Ottoman archival materials, tracing racial ideologies from the Ottoman Empire to the Turkish Republic. To disseminate this scholarship through a complementary visual digital project investigating the urban and rural sites that bear the mark of this history in the region.By examining the history of Ottoman slavery and its effects on contemporary Turkey, this project aims to create a framework that highlights how global patterns of gender oppression and racialized enslavement are interconnected. In doing so, LERSiT will highlight historical contexts often overlooked in studies of colonialism and slavery, thus broadening our understanding of historical and racial formation theories.

The Spermotile project addresses the growing issue of male infertility, which affects approximately 1 in 6 couples globally. Male infertility is responsible for 40% of fertility challenges and has been increasingly prevalent due to various environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors.Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ARTs) such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) rely on high-quality sperm selection to maximize fertility success. However, current sperm selection techniques are manual, low-throughput, and often subjective, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.Spermotile offers a breakthrough solution for ART through an automated, AI-driven platform that integrates three key technologies: Stain-free optical microscopy A Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA) engine powered by trustworthy AI A novel ActiveFilter microfluidic chipThe system selects and collects the highest quality \"star sperm\" for use in ART procedures. This selection process is performed with high throughput, minimal manual input, and without damaging sperm quality, significantly improving the efficiency and outcomes of fertility treatments.Spermotile integrates easily into clinical workflows, adding just 30 minutes and minimal technician time. It improves ART success rates by up to 12%, reduces the number of cycles needed, boosts clinic throughput fivefold, and lowers costs for both patients and clinics.Spermotile builds on prior European projects, including MUSICAL, 3D-nanoMorph, and ERC PoC-funded Spermotile. Aiming for TRL 6 and EU regulatory approval by 2027, it holds three pending patents and a growing IP portfolio, positioning it for commercialization.By addressing SDGs 3.7 and 5.6, it also minimizes environmental impact through energy-efficient AI and ethical data management. The goal is to establish Spermotile as a standard tool in fertility clinics, revolutionizing male infertility treatment.

In an era of increasing international migration, understanding cultural dimensions is crucial for fostering mutual understanding and social cohesion.Roots to Routes (RTR) is a participatory action research on the West African Atlantic Route that investigates cultural representations and practices of migrants from West Africa to the Canary Islands, with a focus on food as a conveyor of identity and a ground for cultural encounter.Research on irregular migration to the Canary Islands has emphasized economic and political aspects, understating cultural elements. RTR addresses this gap by exploring cultural practices, especially food-related ones.Objectives Gathering information through field research Promoting participatory actions to involve local communities Creating visual documentation Offering policy recommendations for the European reception systemRTR employs a multi-sited ethnographic approach, engaging migrants, local communities, and NGOs in Senegal, Southern Morocco, and the Canary Islands. This strategy allows for a nuanced examination of migrants' experiences and cultural transformations before and after their journey to Europe.Participatory actions include workshops and events centered on food and cultural exchange, while the visual component involves collecting and creating images and videos for dissemination.By examining the maintenance and transformation of cultural identity and food habits during migration, RTR offers insights into social integration dynamics and contributes to culturally informed policies, aligning with key EU migration and cultural diversity objectives.The project is timely given the ongoing humanitarian crisis associated with the Atlantic Route. RTR's innovative approach positions it to make significant contributions to both academic discourse and policy development in migration studies, ultimately fostering mutual cultural knowledge and promoting positive intercultural interactions.

The construction industry is at a crossroads where the demand for sustainable and efficient building methods is rapidly increasing. Low-rise prefabricated volumetric modular steel (PFVMS) structures effectively handle vertical and lateral loads through inter-modular connections (IMCs). However, high-rise PFVMS structures face limitations due to their reliance on concrete core structures for lateral load resistance, highlighting a gap in connecting modular units with concrete core tubes while maintaining the sustainable nature of PFVMS structures.MODULARIZATION addresses this gap by advancing PFVMS construction through sustainability principles, circular economy, and artificial intelligence. While PFVMS buildings are recognized for their efficiency, existing assembly methods struggle with structural stability, sustainability, flexibility, and waste management challenges.MODULARIZATION proposes a groundbreaking, fully bolted, size-flexible connection system that allows for disassembly and reuse, thereby reducing the need for on-site welding and minimizing construction waste.MODULARIZATION includes experimental studies and finite element simulations to investigate the load transfer mechanisms, seismic performance, and failure modes of modular connections. Advanced artificial intelligence techniques, including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), will be employed for enhanced data analysis and parametric research.Additionally, Cellular Automata (CA) and Genetic Algorithms (GA) will be used to develop a comprehensive model addressing material and geometric nonlinearities, resulting in accurate design methodologies for the connection's bearing capacity and stiffness.MODULARIZATION is intended to contribute to the circular economy substantially, sustainability in the construction industry, and revolutionize modular construction practices.

Cancer treatment is a significant healthcare challenge, costing Europe up to €199 billion annually. The burden will grow substantially, with a projected 60% increase in cancer cases from 2018 to 2040.To address these challenges, the ScanNanoTreat consortium, consisting of Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Maastricht University, Guerbet, Philips, and Inlecom Commercial Pathways, is developing a revolutionary theranostic approach combining advanced photonics and nanotechnology.The innovative system integrates Spectral Photon Counting Computed Tomography (SPCCT) with X-ray-activated Photodynamic Therapy (X-PDT) using gadolinium-based nanoprobes. This approach enables simultaneous imaging and treatment of solid tumours, with an initial focus on breast and pancreatic cancers.By leveraging low-energy X-rays and optimized nanoprobes, ScanNanoTreat aims to reduce radiation doses by over 30% compared to conventional radiotherapy. This technology is expected to radically shorten the diagnosis-treatment cycle, leading to improved prognosis and better patient outcomes, and up to 40% reduction in cancer treatment costs.If successfully deployed, ScanNanoTreat could revolutionize the European theranostic market, aiming to capture 10-17% of the projected €493 million market by 2032, suggesting a potential market size of €35-€60 million by 2035.The project will advance the technology from TRL 3 to TRL 5, preparing for clinical trials by 2027 and potential market entry by 2035. Additionally, a business plan and exploitation strategy will be developed, targeting a spinoff creation to commercialize the technology.The support of the EIC Transition grant is crucial to conduct preclinical studies, optimize the SPCCT system, and develop a comprehensive regulatory strategy. By addressing critical healthcare needs and aligning with EU strategic autonomy in MedTech, ScanNanoTreat will radically improve cancer care and contribute to the sustainability of European healthcare systems.

Precision spectroscopy is a rapidly advancing field, where advanced experimental and theoretical methods converge to measure fundamental constants and test the laws of nature with remarkable accuracy.In this MSCA project, I propose innovative laser spectroscopy experiments in molecular hydrogen ions (MHI) to improve the determination of the proton-to-electron mass ratio, a very important fundamental constant of nature.My current group at LaserLaB Amsterdam and the host research group at the Kastler Brossel Laboratory (LKB) in Paris are both key players in the field. The MHI spectroscopy experiments performed in Amsterdam, combined with the quantum electrodynamics (QED) calculation methods developed at LKB, have enabled an improved determination of the proton-to-electron mass ratio and the electron relative atomic mass.Thanks to these exceptional results, as of 2022 MHI spectroscopy contributes to the definition of the CODATA internationally recommended values of the fundamental physics constants.To improve this further, I will implement Doppler-free laser excitation of an MHI quadrupole and/or two-photon vibrational transition, perform precision laser spectroscopy of the excited transition, and extract an even improved determination of the proton-to-electron mass ratio by comparing the measured transition frequency to the theoretically predicted value.This MSCA fellowship will give me the opportunity to do outstanding research by combining my hands-on expertise in precision spectroscopy with the expertise of the host research group in frequency metrology and QED calculations.It will also give me the perfect platform to foster international collaborations within my personal scientific network and to lay out my longer-term research plans, including developing the first MHI-based optical molecular clock to advance novel applications across science and industry.

Fugitive methane emissions (“FME”) from fossil fuels account for 20% of total methane emissions. Fugitive emissions are the result of loss of well and pipeline integrity, particularly in aging or decommissioned infrastructure.Emissions are largely self-reported by fossil fuel companies, and one survey indicated leaks from approximately 47% of active wells in the area, indicating that actual methane emissions may be much higher than that reported by industry or estimated by government.Gas Analysers based on the current mid infrared (mid IR) Laser Absorption Spectroscopy technology are still complex, delicate, and expensive, which limits their potential for deployment.WILLOWISP will combine four recent breakthroughs to make an ultraportable gas analyser for methane, which will be lightweight, streamlined, and fully self-contained comprising the laser, photothermal transducer, gas management, and electronics.We will reduce a spectroscopy system that currently occupies 1m² on an optical bench to a 5cm x 5cm footprint, with the same and potentially better performance relative to the benchtop system.The system will be capable of operating in environments that are challenging to traditional spectroscopy systems, such as small unmanned aerial vehicles.WILLOWISP will realise a separate transducer chip and excitation chip that are indirectly coupled via the photothermal effect in the analyte. No optical elements (lenses, mirrors, fibres, etc.) are required to couple the two chips.As a result, our gas analyser will have very high vibration and shock resistance. The two photonic chips can be assembled with standard electronics industry high throughput pick-and-place assembly tools.This simplicity and compactness translate into significantly reduced costs, by at least two orders of magnitude, creating a great opportunity for a spin-out company.

ARIEL (scaling sustainable Anodes for efficient water ElectroLysis) seeks to demonstrate and validate a scalable process for the synthesis, activation, and implementation of non-platinum-group catalysts for water electrolysis – a bottleneck on the path to the projected gigawatt deployment of this technology that is needed to meet carbon emission targets.We have previously demonstrated, at the lab-scale, the feasibility and potential of cobalt-based anodes as an alternative to iridium in proton-exchange membrane water electrolysers (PEMWE), achieving activity and stability at PEMWE-relevant current densities (Science 384, 1373, 2024).ARIEL aims to build on these results, translating original, non-scalable synthesis and manufacturing protocols into scalable processes that retain catalytic activity and stability. The aim is to demonstrate a process compatible with kg-synthesis and activation, prototyping electrodes up to 400 cm2; and externally validating these, as a prelude to the potential commercial exploitation of this invention.ARIEL will further assess the sensitivity of the different parts of the process on reliability, and perform scale-informed technoeconomic and lifecycle analysis to evaluate different exploitation schemes.

One of the main challenges in the domain of respiratory RNA delivery has been administration. Today, while 15 RNA therapeutics are undergoing clinical trials for pulmonary diseases, none has yet secured regulatory approval.Our nano-embedded microparticles (NEMs) represent a disruptive approach and paradigm shift in the field of RNA therapeutics for the treatment of pulmonary diseases. Our IP-protected NEM technology comprises therapeutic RNA, which is encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and formulated as an inhalable dry powder.This innovation builds the foundation to RNhale's two-pronged business concept: In-house drug development RNA formulation in R&D partnershipsIn brief, we have developed a standalone approach, pioneering an RNAi-based drug candidate for the treatment of moderate and severe allergic asthma. Additionally, our scalable and indication-independent production technology of RNA-loaded dry powders will be a second mainstay of our commercialization strategy.

The SUPCAP project aims to develop a new 2D heterostructure electrode material that embeds metal phosphides between graphene oxide sheets for enhanced energy storage applications.This method will address the difficulty of developing conductive, high-capacitive, and stable charge storage materials by combining battery-type and capacitive materials in a layered configuration.We will use a “Nano-to-Nano” approach to make all-solid-state symmetric devices using electrophoretic and electrochemical deposition (EPD/ECD) techniques. This will eliminate the need for binders, making the process cheaper and more useful in industry.The research will use in-situ Raman spectroscopy to monitor electrode structural changes in real time throughout charge and discharge cycles. Furthermore, scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) will allow for localized deposition of 2D materials by varying local pH and ionic strength.Our goal is to reach a specific capacity of more than 1000 mAhg-1 and a power density of more than 100 kWkg-1.We intend to employ these materials to create 3D-printed micro-supercapacitors for wearable devices, biomedical applications, and airplane backup power systems.This work aims to significantly advance flexible energy storage technology by integrating synthesis, density functional theory (DFT) analysis, and deposition technique optimization to bridge the gap between batteries and supercapacitors.

The NextGW project aims to revolutionise gravitational wave (GW) astronomy by developing next-generation waveform models for extreme-mass-ratio inspirals (EMRIs), which will be critical for the success of the future space-based GW observatory LISA.EMRIs provide unique insights into the strong-field regime of gravity around supermassive black holes, enabling precise tests of general relativity and a deeper understanding of the fundamental nature of black holes.Accurate models are essential for detecting and interpreting these signals, and this project will push the frontiers of waveform modelling by incorporating astrophysically realistic features, including: The spin of the primary black hole Eccentric orbits PrecessionBy enhancing the predictive power of gravitational self-force (GSF) theory, NextGW will pave the way for transformative discoveries that could reshape our understanding of gravity, space-time, and the universe.As a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellow, I will receive world-class training at the University of Southampton, working closely with leaders in the field of GW science. This fellowship will provide me with advanced expertise in GSF theory, waveform modelling, and data analysis, as well as training in interdisciplinary collaboration, project management, and public engagement.By collaborating with the LISA Consortium and participating in international research efforts, I will be well-prepared to lead future research initiatives in gravitational wave astronomy.The outcomes of NextGW will advance the scientific objectives of upcoming GW observatories like LISA and the Einstein Telescope and contribute to Europe’s leadership in a field poised to revolutionise fundamental physics.