Tyndall researcher awarded Marie Curie funding to transform protein analysis with photonics

Date Announced: 03 Sep 2024

Cork, Ireland -- Dr Padraic Morrissey, Senior Technology Programme Manager at Tyndall (based at UCC), has been awarded funding from the prestigious Marie Curie Doctoral Networks programme, for the PROTEMIC project. This is one of four UCC projects that has received funding through the programme, with total funding awarded to UCC amounting to over €2m.

The ‘PROTEMIC’ project (coordinated by MTU), aims to transform the field of protein analysis by developing advanced photonic technologies.

The project is set to deliver two innovative portable prototypes, that are designed for the dynamic, real-time monitoring of protein structures in situ, enabling accurate analysis without needing to extract a sample, thus preserving sample integrity, and reducing contamination risks.

These developments are expected to greatly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of protein-based pharmaceutical production, such as vaccines and therapeutic enzymes, and advance biotechnological applications like personalized medicine. This progress promises significant societal benefits by improving health outcomes.

The consortium, comprising leading academic institutions and industry partners across Europe, collaborates to provide cutting-edge training and research opportunities for doctoral candidates. These efforts are aimed at developing new mid-IR light sources, metasurfaces, waveguide systems, and detectors, alongside testing innovative designs and prototypes for real-world applications.

The project aims to advance scientific knowledge in protein analysis as well as significantly impact sectors such as healthcare, biotechnology, and material sciences through its technological innovations and highly trained graduates.

Speaking about the project, Dr Padraic Morrissey said: “We’re excited about Tyndall’s key role in the PROTEMIC project, where our advanced photonic technologies and commitment to training PhD students are setting new standards in protein analysis and fostering the next generation of innovators.”

Contact

E-mail: info@tyndall.ie

Web Site: www.tyndall.ie