AMRAMR project content
Project summary
We are proposing a 4-year program of knowledge transfer and networking between academic institutions [University of Leicester (UK), University of Valencia (Spain), International Iberian Nanotechnology Lab (Portugal), University of Bologna (Italy), University of Aveiro (Portugal), Fudan University (China), and Alfred University (USA)] and industrial partners [Teer Coatings Ltd (UK)]. The objective of the proposed joint exchange programme is to establish long-term stable research cooperation between the partners with interdisciplinary expertise and knowledge to develop Advanced Multidisciplinary Research for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMRAMR), including the development of novel antibacterial nanomaterials and nanostructures, novel antibacterial thin films coatings, upconversion technology for AMR applications, photonics technology for AMR application, and evaluation of the antibacterial performance and antimicrobial resistance; the synergetic effect for the above approaches to understanding antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) refers to the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs, such as antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics. AMR is a serious global public health threat that could lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared that AMR is one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of AMR as it has led to increased use of antimicrobial drugs, particularly antibiotics, which can contribute to the development of AMR. People with COVID-19 may develop secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, and may be prescribed antibiotics to treat these infections. However, unnecessary use of antibiotics can lead to the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria, making it more difficult to treat infections in the future.
Work Package Number WP1 Lead Beneficiary 1. UNIBO
Work Package Name Administrative, financial and project management
Start Month 1 End Month 48
Objectives
1) To develop and oversee the implementation of the secondment plan, ensuring that it runs smoothly and adheres to the established timeline.
2) To monitor and evaluate the secondments, ensuring that the host organisation benefit from the exchange and that the overall plan is executed as envisaged.
3) To coordinate and oversee the research activities of the consortium, ensuring effective collaboration and communication between partners.
4) To ensure the project deliverables meet high quality standards and are delivered on time.
5) To serve as the main point of contact between the European Commission and the project consortium, providing regular updates and progress reports.
6) To secure the gender equality is prioritized in all aspects of the project, from recruitment to dissemination and outreach activities.
7) to provide comprehensive administrative support, assisting with budget management, reporting, and other project related tasks as needed.
Work Package Number WP2 Lead Beneficiary 8. ULEIC
Work Package Name Development of 3D Bulk Materials for Antimicrobial Applications
Start Month 1 End Month 48
Objectives
1) To develop MgB2 high-density ceramics samples by Spark Plasma Sintering
2) To develop MgB2 high-density ceramics samples by 3D printing
3) To achieve the desired density, microstructure, and properties in the bulk ceramic samples
4) To ensure that the sintering process is efficient and reproducible
Work Package Number WP3 Lead Beneficiary 7. TCL
Work Package Name Development of 2D Thin Films & Coatings for Antimicrobial Applications
Start Month 1 End Month 48
Objectives
1) To develop antibacterial graphitic coatings by physical vapour deposition
2) To develop antibacterial diamond coatings by chemical vapour deposition
3) To achieve the desired density, microstructure, and properties in the PVD and CVD coatings
4) To ensure that the PVD and CVD process are efficient and reproducible
Work Package Number WP4 Lead Beneficiary 2. UVEG
Work Package Name Development of novel 1D nanoparticles for AMR application
Start Month 1 End Month 48
Objectives
1) Synthesis of the nanoparticles
2) Surface functionalisation of the upconversion nanomaterials
3) Antibacterial activity evaluation
4) Synergy effect and toxicity studies
Work Package Number WP5 Lead Beneficiary 5. FDU
Work Package Name development of UV LED for Antimicrobial Applications
Start Month 13 End Month 48
Objectives
1) Fabrication UV LED arrays;
2) Development of UV LED based systems;
3) Antibacterial activity evaluation.
Work Package Number WP6 Lead Beneficiary 4. UAveiro
Work Package Name Antibacterial and antimicrobial evaluation
Start Month 1 End Month 48
Objectives
1) To Identify and select bacterial strains to be used for the evaluation of antibacterial properties, such as Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus aureus.
2) Perform antibacterial assays using standard methods.
3) To identify the mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance and the genetic basis of resistance.
4) Ensure the reliability and reproducibility of the results by implementing quality control measures.
Work Package Number WP7 Lead Beneficiary 1. UNIBO
Work Package Name Training, Communication, Dissemination
Start Month 1 End Month 48
Objectives
1) to effectively disseminate the project to various target groups;
2) to provide adequate training;
3) to increase IPR-awareness and to provide support to all partners for the best IP protection of their results.