Objectif Active liquid crystals are out-of-equilibrium systems that display intriguing dynamic phenomena, arising from the interplaybetween topological defects and collective motion. Here, we propose to experimentally study for the first time (i) thedynamics of topological defects in the active colloidal nematic phase and (ii) the interplay between these topological defectsand collective dynamics, in three dimensions, at the single particle level, and with full control over the defects. To reachthese objectives, we first use a combination of advanced colloidal synthesis and surface modification techniques in order todevelop a model system of active colloidal rods of controlled size, aspect ratio and surface properties. We then confine thisnewly developed model system in microfluidic channels, where the colloidal rods form a nematic liquid crystal. Topologicaldefects will be induced in the nematic phase using specific geometric constraints, which can be varied to control thelocations and strengths of the defects, or by optical trapping techniques. Finally, we use state-of-the-art confocal microscopyand sophisticated image analysis techniques to follow, in real time and 3D real space, both the individual particle motion andthe collective dynamics in the system. Our work will thus provide experimental verification of the intriguing link betweentopological defects and collective dynamics in active liquid crystals and inspire novel theories and simulation codes capableof capturing the intrinsic complexity of coupling structure, orientation and activity. Champ scientifique engineering and technologymaterials engineeringliquid crystals Mots‑clés active matter soft matter topological defects liquid crystals anisotropic colloids confocal microscopy optical trapping microfluidics Programme(s) H2020-EU.1.3. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Main Programme H2020-EU.1.3.2. - Nurturing excellence by means of cross-border and cross-sector mobility Thème(s) MSCA-IF-2015-EF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF-EF) Appel à propositions H2020-MSCA-IF-2015 Voir d’autres projets de cet appel Régime de financement MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF) Coordinateur THE CHANCELLOR, MASTERS AND SCHOLARS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD Contribution nette de l'UE € 195 454,80 Adresse WELLINGTON SQUARE UNIVERSITY OFFICES OX1 2JD Oxford Royaume-Uni Voir sur la carte Région South East (England) Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Oxfordshire Type d’activité Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Liens Contacter l’organisation Opens in new window Site web Opens in new window Participation aux programmes de R&I de l'UE Opens in new window Réseau de collaboration HORIZON Opens in new window Coût total € 195 454,80