By the end of the project, the following had been achieved:
WP1: Preparatory Research Project
o Development and validation of three classes of sustainable nanosensors for detecting heavy metals, pesticides, and antibiotics, meeting all technical targets.
o Advanced graphene-based composite electrodes engineered, demonstrating high sensitivity, selectivity, reproducibility, and very low detection limits (e.g. down to ppb levels).
o Creation of low-cost paper-based nanosensor platforms using novel graphene derivatives (e.g. fluorographene-based materials), enabling portable and scalable sensing solutions.
o Establishment of scalable fabrication methods (laser processing, inkjet and screen printing) for reproducible, cost-effective sensor production.
o Integration of sensors into portable electrochemical and microfluidic systems for real-time, in-situ measurements.
o Comprehensive laboratory and field validation, including deployment across Albanian rivers and lakes, confirming reliability under real environmental conditions.
o Generation of strong scientific outputs, including 11 peer-reviewed publications and collaboration agreements with industry, supporting exploitation potential.
WP2: Short-term staff exchanges and trainings for experienced researchers
o Implementation of extensive bilateral staff exchanges between UT, ICN2, and UPO, exceeding planned training activities.
o Transfer of advanced expertise in sensor fabrication, printing technologies, graphene-based materials, and electrochemical analysis.
o Training in field deployment, including calibration, portable instrumentation, and handling of environmental interferences.
o Development and harmonisation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across partners to ensure reproducibility and comparability of results.
o Strengthening of long-term collaboration through joint workshops, conferences, and networking events.
WP3: Research internships and trainings for early-stage researchers
o Delivery of extensive ESR exchanges and hands-on training in nanosensor design, fabrication, and electrochemical detection techniques.
o Capacity building in graphene-based and printed sensor technologies, including screen-printed and carbon-based electrodes.
o Organisation of summer schools, workshops, and seminars covering advanced sensing technologies and applications.
o Establishment and implementation of a joint PhD programme in sustainable nanosensors, supporting structured doctoral training and mobility.
o Significant enhancement of ESR career prospects through international exposure, interdisciplinary training, and participation in conferences.
WP4: Research Management and Administration Skill Development
o Development and implementation of a comprehensive strategic plan for improving research management and proposal preparation capacity at UT.
o Delivery of targeted training workshops on Horizon Europe proposal writing, project management, financial management, and innovation management.
o Provision of hands-on support for proposal development, resulting in submissions to Horizon Europe Widening calls (e.g. Twinning, Teaming).
o Capacity building through study visits and best-practice exchange with partner institutions.
o Strengthening of UT’s institutional capabilities in research administration, project coordination, and industry engagement.
WP5: Dissemination, Exploitation, Communication and Outreach
o Preparation and implementation of the FAIR Data Management Plan and Open Science practices.
o Development and maintenance of the SUSNANO website and online presence.
o Production of promotional materials (leaflets, posters, media content) and dissemination through multiple channels.
o Organisation of workshops, stakeholder events, and industry engagement activities, including collaboration with Albanian private companies.
o Hosting and participation in international conferences (e.g. TNT, nanoBalkan), significantly enhancing project visibility.
o Broad outreach through media appearances, public events, and science communication activities, strengthening societal engagement.
