Molecularly engineered materials obtained via the sequential combination of different nanomaterials is an encouraging methodological approach. Two-dimensional (2D) materials offer a platform that allows the construction of unique heterostructures with a diversity of physical and chemical properties. Most of the 2D heterostructures are composed of direct stacking of discrete monolayer fragments of individual materials. Although this method allows flexibility, it is sluggish, cumbersome, and mechanically weak. Instead, covalent functionalization provides stability and robustness to the heterostructure. GRAPHMOF is to elucidate the detailed structure of 2D MOF nanosheets covalently affixed with monolayer graphene and MoS2 using scanning probe microscopy. I will employ state-of-the-art scanning probe microscopy to unravel the nanoscale interfacial structure of 2D-2D heterostructures. The fundamental information obtained from the microscopy measurements will be employed to assess the influence of the heterostructures of the 2DMOF on either graphene and/or MoS2 electronic structure using Raman and PL spectroscopy. A clearer understanding and effective use of covalent bond formation could lead to the development of functional surfaces with potential applications in optoelectronic, supercapacitors and sensors. GRAPHMOF will allow me to pursue a highly innovative research line in surface science, providing me a perfect platform for my personal development in terms of research and training in a topic of key importance, i.e., 2D materials, direct covalent functionalization, and state-to-the-art imaging techniques. This project will also allow me to strengthen my teamwork and leadership skills as well as widen my scientific network and collaborations. In summary, this MSCA allowance will be a positive turning point in my academic career toward scientific excellence.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an incurable brain tumor, with current treatments primarily focused on surgical removal. Although the tumor core is often successfully excised, invasive GBM cells that extend beyond the surgical margins persist, leading to recurrence. To improve patient outcomes, it is crucial to advance research that targets these invasive cells and elucidates the mechanisms enabling their survival within healthy brain tissue. Recent studies have revealed that the invasive cells of GBM, which contribute to the tumor’s resilience against treatment, can establish synaptic connections with nearby healthy neurons. These connections, termed neuroglioma synapses (NGS), facilitate an electrical coupling that activates GBM cells and supports their survival. In the healthy brain, 90% of synaptic connections are encapsulated by astrocytes, forming what is known as a tripartite synapse. However, it remains unclear whether NGS between GBM cells and neurons are similarly ensheathed by astrocytes. The astrocytes surrounding the tumor, known as Tumor-Associated Astrocytes (TAAs), enter a reactive state in the presence of GBM, where they are implicated in promoting tumor growth. Emerging evidence suggests that TAAs are functionally connected to GBM cells through gap junctions, enabling the transfer of calcium signals. Despite this, the role of TAAs in facilitating GBM progression via a functional calcium network remains poorly understood. The objectives of this proposal are: 1. Quantify by super resolution microscopy the glial coverage of NGS in human GBM samples and in mouse model 2. Measure the calcium dynamics between the GBM and TAAs to understand better the functional network that makes TAAs promote tumor growth. This research will pioneer new directions in cancer neuroscience by identifying the role of astroglial cells in GBM progression and potentially guiding the development of targeted therapeutic strategies aimed at disrupting these supportive networks. t

Carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composites (CFRPs) constitute a highly profitable market in EU’s economy. Their high stiffness and strength and low density allow engineers to design lightweight structures with a lower carbon footprint than conventional metallic ones. Nonetheless, CFRPs hold two main drawbacks which hinder their exploitation in industry: 1) poor damage and impact tolerance; and 2) limited design space due to the lack of robust design tools and the limited capability of past manufacturing technologies. This 2-year fellowship tackles these drawbacks by developing novel bio-inspired, tailorable and healable multi-impact resistant CFRTP (BIOTHECT) structures. BIOTHECT uses helicoidal layups to minimise fibre breakage during impact and a thermoplastic matrix to enable healing. BIOTHECT structures address current industrial needs for lower maintenance costs, sustainability and weight savings. A novel numerical tool will be developed to understand and design BIOTHECT structures with unique performances. Optimal BIOTHECT structures will be manufactured, tested and analysed through detailed damage analyses to develop the design tool to unprecedented accuracy. The fine-tuned design tool will be translated to industry-friendly packages for direct exploitation. Finally, in the context of the digital industry, the project explores the use of automated manufacturing technologies, 3D printing, to tailor BIOTHECT designs locally in larger conventional structures. This novel design aims at creating macro-components with locally improved damage tolerance without a weight increase, hence leading to lower manufacturing waste and lighter structures. The fellowship will take place at KU Leuven with a 4-month secondment at the Thermoplastic Composites Research Center (NL). Training plan, technical work packages, exploitation, dissemination and communication activities will work together to lead the ER to cover a leading role in his own research group in or out of academia.