Twinning for excellence in biophysics of protein interactions and self-assembly (Twin2PIPSA)

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TWIN2PIPSA will improve R&I capacities of FC.ID/ULisboa (Portugal) in the field of protein folding biophysics and conformational diseases by partnering in joint Twinning activities with three world-leading research and technological development performers: the University of Cambridge (UCAM), the University of Copenhagen (UCPH), and Tel Aviv University (TAU). The folding and misfolding of proteins, their interactions and self-assembly in cells is central to biology and has implications in diseases that affect millions of people worldwide. The so-called conformational diseases include cataracts, metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer’s Disease. Knowledge on the ability to modulate protein interactions and self-assembly is critical to develop applications of protein-based biomaterials like bioadhesive glues or to design therapeutic antibody biologics. TWIN2PIPSA fulfils local needs and will generate outstanding contributions through investigations of pathological self-assembly in vitro and in living cells, nanoscale characterization of protein-based materials and implementation of integrative biomolecular simulations that will raise the international profile and scientific standing of FC.ID/ULisboa. This will enable a local cluster of excellence whose scientific and technological breakthroughs will empower both project partners and the industry sector in their regional innovation ecosystems. The partnership and network will significantly reinforce the R&I capabilities of the widening institution and Portugal’s innovation performance. TWIN2PIPSA comprises several Twinning activities: staff exchanges, secondments to partners, expert visits, meetings, training schools and a joint exploratory project that will translate into biomedical and biotechnological outcomes. Dedicated activities to reinforce research management capacities and administrative skills of FC.ID/ULisboa grant office through mentoring and staff exchanges are also plannedno public description