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Precision mass spectrometry to leverage applications in life and environmental sciences

Objective

The unbeatable performance leaders in molecular analysis of biological and environmental samples are the Fourier transform mass spectrometers (FTMS): Orbitrap FTMS and ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR MS). However, even FTMS approaches suffer from performance limitations when facing the molecular complexity of samples in modern applications. The primary reasons for these limitations are the space charge effects – strong Coulombic interactions of many ions oscillating in the trapping devices. Applications suffering from space charge affects include those with (i) significant fluctuation of incoming ion currents; (ii) close spacing of molecular mass/charge ratios to be resolved; and (iii) high spectral dynamic range of ion intensities. To address these performance challenges and as a result of the completed ERC Starting Grant, we propose to increase precision of mass measurements in FT-ICR MS by using the direct cyclotron frequency measurements instead of the space charge-sensitive reduced cyclotron frequency measurements employed currently. We have confirmed the principal feasibility of FT-ICR MS at the cyclotron frequency on both types of commercial FT-ICR MS instruments on the lab level. The aim of our PoC grant application is to realize the benefits of FT-ICR MS at the cyclotron frequency by developing and seamlessly integrating the laboratory-level innovation into commercial instruments at an industry-grade level to leverage life and environmental sciences applications. The action plan includes: (i) enabling integration of prototype ICR mass analyzers into commercial FT-ICR MS instruments via feasibility studies and pilot projects; (ii) analyzing competitive advantages of the project’s outcomes over existing products and workflows, with a focus on frequency (mass) precision increase; (iii) clarifying IPR position, strategy; and (iv) performing market analysis.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.

Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

ERC-POC - Proof of Concept Grant

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) ERC-2017-PoC

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Host institution

SPECTROSWISS SARL
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 150 000,00
Address
EPFL INNOVATION PARK BUILDING I
1015 Lausanne
Switzerland

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SME

The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.

Yes
Region
Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera Région lémanique Vaud
Activity type
Private for-profit entities (excluding Higher or Secondary Education Establishments)
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 150 000,00

Beneficiaries (1)

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