TRANSVERSAL SOCIETAL DOMAINS

Two cross-cutting Strategic Domains run transversally across the scientific structure of the Centre, connecting activities from the 5 different Research Areas and providing a common framework to address major scientific and societal challenges.

Quantum Axis

This axis encompasses research on materials, phenomena and concepts underpinning future quantum technologies, building on a mature and well-established body of work developed at the Centre over recent years. It includes quantum materials, superconductivity, spin-related phenomena, low-dimensional systems, electronic structure and transport, as well as the interplay between magnetic and superconducting order. It also covers photonics and the development of quantum-enabled devices, ranging from sensors to memory elements and qubit-related platforms. By investigating how quantum effects emerge and can be controlled in materials and devices, this axis lays the physical foundations for next-generation information processing, sensing and communication technologies. The present framework is designed to consolidate this trajectory by reinforcing coherence across quantum-related activities, supported by advanced characterisation, high-precision modelling, which will rely more and more on AI, and continuous experimental–theoretical feedback.

OBJECTIVES

  • Investigate and control novel quantum phenomena in materials and nanostructures, focusing on the emergence and interplay of quantum effects at the atomic scale and in low-dimensional systems.
  • Design and develop quantum materials, devices and sensing concepts, including superconducting, spin-based, low-dimensional and photonic systems, supported by advanced characterisation, nanofabrication and device-integration methodologies.
  • Develop and implement quantum computing algorithms for materials science applications, optimising the use of existing quantum computing platforms to calculate material properties and simulate relevant quantum systems.

Sustainability Axis

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This axis provides a unifying framework for a growing body of research activities previously developed across the Centre which will be further strengthened through targeted reinforcements described in the methodology and implementation sections. It addresses materials and processes relevant to (photo)catalysis, surface chemistry, thermal energy management, energy harvesting and storage, and water purification, as well as the development of functional (nano)materials for health-related applications such as biosensing and neuro-technologies. Scattering techniques and operando approaches play a key role in probing these systems under realistic conditions, supported by the synergy between theoretical modelling, computational design and experimental validation. This framework also integrates the modernisation of materials fabrication and characterisation infrastructures in line with “safe and sustainable by design” principles, supported by data-driven (AI/ML) methodologies. In addition, ongoing studies focus on understanding and controlling energy dissipation in advanced electronic devices and processors, with the goal of reducing the energy footprint of state-of-the-art electronics.

OBJECTIVES

  • Develop materials and nanostructures for health-related applications, including functional nanoparticles, soft-matter systems and engineered interfaces for sensing, diagnostics and advanced fabrication, grounded in fundamental materials physics.
  • Develop materials and processes for sustainable energy technologies and low-carbon transformation, addressing energy conversion, storage, thermal management and sustainable construction through fundamental materials-physics studies of structure, dynamics, transport mechanisms and stability under realistic operating conditions.
  • Design and develop materials, assisted by artificial intelligence, for environmental remediation, inspired by circular-economy principles, addressing pollution in air, water and soil through innovative sensing, filtration, separation and catalytic technologies that minimise the use of raw materials and environmental impact.