Project description
Advancing epigenetics research
Epigenetics refer to the changes in gene expression that occur without alterations in the DNA sequence. These modifications can be passed down generations and may be influenced by environmental factors, including dietary factors, chemicals, and stress factors at conception or later in the uterine life. The EU-funded EPIBOOST project aims to strengthen the research capacity of the involved partners in the field of environmental epigenetics. Research focused on DNA methylation as a biomarker of environmental impact will be accompanied by training activities on a wide range of topics and hands-on skills.
Objective
The EPIBOOST project joins a widening partner and two internationally-leading partners that will steer a solid capacitation strategy towards tackling the challenges to the recently proposed uptake of epigenomics by Environmental Assessment frameworks. Capacitation activities cover for 5 specific objectives. The 1st is to optimize research protocols, enhancing the practical skills and research profile of the Widening partner for the development of excellent Science in the field of environmental epigenetics. This constitutes the nurturing stage, where we will be twinning (exchanges and training sessions) under an overall philosophy of learning- and advancing-by-doing allowed by a preparatory research project, which will build knowledge on the suitability of DNA methylation signatures as informative biomarkers of environmental contamination and effects. The 2nd objective is focused on the seeding of the talent that will sustain the European critical mass at the best world-class standards in the field, through the organization of several training events (advanced courses, summer schools and short courses in scientific meetings) targeting young EU researchers. The 3rd and 4th objectives regard the absolute need of a capacitated science management and administrative support to effectively grow world-class research in the field; these will be tackled through an immersive training programme focusing key core facilities (ethics & animal housing; sequencing), managers exchange for on-site training, professional training and real-time funding application preparation. The fifth addresses network growing and will be achieved through a systematic strategy for involving international flagship experts in capacitation activities and stakeholders in the project, which will strengthen the Consortium for new research and innovation ventures.
Keywords
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-CSA - HORIZON Coordination and Support ActionsCoordinator
3810-193 Aveiro
Portugal