TU Delft Researchers Win Prestigious ERC Starting Grants
Delft, Sunday, 15 September 2024.
Five TU Delft scientists have been awarded €1.5 million ERC Starting Grants for groundbreaking research. Projects range from neurodegenerative disease studies to innovative robotics and climate modeling, showcasing the university’s commitment to cutting-edge scientific exploration.
Breakthroughs in Neurodegenerative Disease Research
Kristin Grußmayer, a biophysicist at TU Delft, will lead the QSCOPE project, which aims to understand the mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s disease. Utilizing advanced 3D imaging and functional nanoscopy, Grußmayer’s research will focus on the material states of protein aggregates and their role in disease progression. This project is expected to provide valuable insights into the molecular underpinnings of these incurable conditions, potentially paving the way for new therapeutic approaches.
Innovations in Soft Robotics
Cosimo Della Santina, another grant recipient, is set to revolutionize the field of robotics with his project on soft robots. These robots, constructed from flexible materials like silicone, are designed to mimic the dexterity and adaptability of biological organisms such as elephants. The project aims to enhance the intelligence and environmental interaction capabilities of soft robots, making them capable of performing tasks that rigid robots cannot. This innovation holds promise for applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and beyond.
Advancements in Fluid Mechanics
Anh Khoa Doan, an Assistant Professor specializing in AI for Fluid Mechanics, has been recognized for his work on predicting and controlling extreme events in turbulent flows. His research, supported by the ERC Starting Grant, will develop a scientific machine learning framework to address challenges posed by chaotic and unpredictable fluid dynamics. This work is particularly relevant to atmospheric phenomena and sustainable hydrogen-based jet engines, contributing to the development of resilient renewable technologies.
New Perspectives on Manipulation in Social Structures
Michael Klenk’s project, CareNow, challenges traditional views on manipulation by focusing on the socio-structural aspects of decision-making. Klenk argues that current theories are overly centered on individuals, neglecting the significant influence of social contexts. This research aims to develop a more comprehensive understanding of manipulation, which could have far-reaching implications for fields such as ethics, politics, and social policy.
Climate-Economic Modeling for a Green Future
Giacomo Marangoni’s project, RIPPLE, addresses the limitations in current climate-energy-economic models by exploring positive tipping points in the transition to a green economy. The research will develop new models to identify constraints and stimulate innovation in green technologies. By focusing on the early detection of these tipping points, Marangoni’s work aims to accelerate the shift towards sustainable development and a climate-resilient society.