Objetivo 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. Ámbito científico engineering and technologymaterials engineeringliquid crystals Palabras clave active matter soft matter topological defects liquid crystals anisotropic colloids confocal microscopy optical trapping microfluidics Programa(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 Tema(s) MSCA-IF-2015-EF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF-EF) Convocatoria de propuestas H2020-MSCA-IF-2015 Consulte otros proyectos de esta convocatoria Régimen de financiación MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF) Coordinador THE CHANCELLOR, MASTERS AND SCHOLARS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD Aportación neta de la UEn € 195 454,80 Dirección WELLINGTON SQUARE UNIVERSITY OFFICES OX1 2JD Oxford Reino Unido Ver en el mapa Región South East (England) Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Oxfordshire Tipo de actividad Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Enlaces Contactar con la organización Opens in new window Sitio web Opens in new window Participación en los programas de I+D de la UE Opens in new window Red de colaboración de HORIZON Opens in new window Coste total € 195 454,80
