During the first reporting period of the BioMat4CAST project (M1–M15), the main focus was on establishing the scientific, managerial, and organizational foundations necessary for the successful implementation of the ERA Chair initiative.
This phase included the recruitment of the BioMat4CAST ERA Chair Holder, Prof. Dr. Aatto Laaksonen, and the definition and implementation of the project’s core strategic tools, namely the Scientific and Management Plan, the Data Management Plan, the Dissemination and Communication Plan, and the Sustainability Plan.
In parallel, the BioMat4CAST research group was created through targeted staff recruitment, supported by the acquisition of essential IT infrastructure, research equipment, and other assets required for the newly established team. Initial training activities and networking actions were also carried out, enabling the group to become operational by the end of the first reporting period and to start building its internal capacity and external connections.
Building on this solid foundation, the second reporting period (M16–M36) focused on consolidating, expanding, and fully deploying the BioMat4CAST team as an independent and visible research entity. This stage was marked by the recruitment of the BioMat4CAST ERA Team Leader, Prof. Dr. Ana-Nicoleta Bondar, as well as additional young researchers (PhD students), further strengthening the team’s human resources and scientific potential.
The main implementation tools developed during the first period were updated and refined to reflect the expanded team structure and evolving project needs. Throughout this period, the BioMat4CAST group engaged extensively in advanced training activities, scientific research, dissemination and communication actions, international mobility, participation in major conferences, and the organization of scientific workshops, round tables, and networking events.
At the same time, specific measures were implemented to reinforce the long-term sustainability of the team, building on the Sustainability Plan established in the first period and identifying new integration and funding opportunities. As a result, during the second reporting period the BioMat4CAST group operated as a fully functional and mature research team, while laying the groundwork for future activities aimed at increased visibility, strengthened networking, and long-term sustainability within the international scientific community.
In the upcoming implementation periods, the BioMat4CAST team aims to focus on networking and activities aimed at ensuring the group’s long-term sustainability. We also intend to dedicate equal effort to initiatives that enhance the group’s visibility and strengthen its recognition within the scientific community.
