Molecules and (Nano)Materials for BioFunctional Integration: from Design to education (bioFIDE)
Project identifier: IP-UNIST-47
Type of project: Research Project
Source of funding: European Union – NextGenerationEU programme
Source of funding: European Unio
Project duration: 1.10.2025. – 30. 09. 2029. – 30. 09. 2029.
Understanding and controlling biofunctional interactions at the nano- and molecular levels are essential for the development of advanced materials and technologies with applications in biomedicine and sensor development. The bioFIDE project establishes an interdisciplinary approach that combines the synthesis and characterization of (nano)structured surfaces, the design of amphiphilic molecules, and computational modeling of biological systems. Its focus is on the study of biocompatible materials, the production of stable and functional nanostructures of noble metals and metal oxides with enhanced activity, including the development of sensors for the detection of volatile organic compounds at room temperature. In parallel, new bioactive and environmentally friendly quaternary ammonium compounds are being developed with the aim of combating bacterial resistance. Using advanced molecular dynamics methods and image analysis, the project investigates the mechanisms of molecular interactions and biological activity. The project also includes the development of digital educational tools and platforms for science communication and for the education of university students, school pupils, and the wider public. The expected results will contribute to the understanding of fundamental processes, the development of new functional materials, and the advancement of STEM education, while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of relevant innovations with social and economic impact. The bioFIDE project is structured into three interconnected work packages. The first work package (NANO) encompasses the fabrication and characterization of biologically active and/or biocompatible surfaces and nanostructures. The second package (CHEM) is focused on the synthesis, characterization, activity testing, and degradation of amphiphilic molecules. The third work package (EDU–MOD) includes biosystem modeling and the analysis of experimental data, with a particular emphasis on science communication and on bringing scientific methods closer to university students and school pupils.
