About the project
Innovating Health with THz Technology
TeraIBs includes 11 specific projects, each addressing different aspects of the biosensors and technologies being developed.
Research Line 1: Molecules
Molecular sensing is set to transform healthcare by enabling predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine. The recent pandemic highlighted the need for reliable, high-specificity biosensors that can provide quick results without the need for time-consuming lab work. To make significant progress, we need powerful methods to detect and analyze biomolecules and understand their complex interactions.
Our focus in this research line is to enhance THz molecular sensing for diseases like melanoma, liver cancer, and sepsis. We aim to improve detection levels without the need for PCR, identify new biological markers, and ensure high sensitivity and specificity. This will involve working with various molecular analytes relevant to these diseases.
This research line will focus on enhancing the detection of EVs and viruses using advanced techniques like surface-enhanced sensing and near-field nanospectroscopy. By identifying and assessing these particles, we can further investigate their components in other research lines.
Research Line 2: Vesicles and Viruses
Living cells release tiny structures called extracellular vesicles (EVs), which play crucial roles in disease development. Understanding EVs can improve diagnosis and treatment for conditions like cancer and sepsis. EVs and viruses share similar characteristics, making it possible to use the same THz biosensing techniques for both.
This research line will focus on enhancing the detection of EVs and viruses using advanced techniques like surface-enhanced sensing and near-field nanospectroscopy. By identifying and assessing these particles, we can further investigate their components in other research lines.
Research Line 3: Cells and Tissues (Organ-on-Chip)
Organ-on-chip (OOC) technology mimics complex cell structures and their functions, providing dynamic conditions that closely resemble real-life situations. The goal is to create tissue models that accurately represent in vivo conditions, which is essential for medical research.
Our focus here is to develop advanced skin-on-chip models that integrate THz biosensors for validation in cellular and tissue studies. We will also create a sepsis model to test THz biosensors. This research will help us assess the potential of THz technology for real-time, non-invasive monitoring of tissue viability.
This research line will focus on enhancing the detection of EVs and viruses using advanced techniques like surface-enhanced sensing and near-field nanospectroscopy. By identifying and assessing these particles, we can further investigate their components in other research lines.
TeraIBs Doctoral Training Program
The TeraIBs program aims to train doctoral candidates (DCs) through collaborative research projects, forming a large, multi-disciplinary team. This approach helps DCs learn to work across various fields and sectors. Upon completing the program, DCs will earn a PhD degree. Each DC will create a Personal Career Development Plan (PCDP), reviewed every six months by their supervisors.
Comprehensive Training
The program includes training in scientific and technical skills, soft skills, and industrial orientation. Additionally, workshops will be organized to complement the training and encourage interaction among participants. The TeraIBs program has several key training objectives:
DCs will receive cutting-edge training in THz biosensors, advanced THz spectroscopic techniques, and THz sensor-embedded microfluidic platforms. This includes post-master level courses and workshops organized by partner institutions.
The program aims to produce scientifically trained researchers in THz technology and its biomedical applications, with cross-disciplinary knowledge and industry experience.
DCs will participate in team building, project management, and entrepreneurship activities. They will also gain teaching experience through lecturing and tutoring. This diverse skill set will prepare them for successful careers in industry or academia.
The program will help DCs build a network of young researchers in industry, academia, and the private sector, fostering the growth of the European biosensing and health sector ecosystem.
DCs will learn about scientific integrity, ethical issues in biomedical research, and the social impact of new technologies, such as the circular economy.
Scientific papers
As soon as first publications are available from the TeraIBs project, we will publish them here.
Public deliverables
As soon as public deliverables of TeraIBs project are due and finalized they will be published here.