Project description
Next-generation microscope for nanoscale imaging
Understanding processes at the nanoscale such as the way cells repair their membranes requires imaging tools of extraordinary precision. Current microscopy techniques each excel in specific environments but cannot be easily combined, limiting the range of processes that can be observed simultaneously. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the SPEEDSCOPE project proposes to develop a compact, high-speed atomic force microscope that seamlessly integrates with super-resolution optical microscopy and electron microscopy. Operating across air, water and vacuum environments, this platform will enable simultaneous surface and subsurface imaging at sub-nanometre resolution and video speeds. The project is expected to open new possibilities for nanoscale research in biology, materials science and climate science.
Objective
Our ability to observe real-time nanoscale processes is essential for advancing research in various fields, including life and climate sciences. Current microscopes mostly rely on optical, electron, or scanning probe techniques, each limited to imaging samples in specific environments (air, water, or vacuum). By combining these techniques, their individual strengths can complement each other. For example, scanning probe microscopy can offer high spatial resolution to overcome the limitations of optical methods, while optical microscopy can reveal subsurface events that surface-sensing scanning probes cannot access.
This project aims to overcome the limitations of existing microscopy technology by employing a correlative microscopy approach that operates in air, water, and vacuum environments. The SPEEDSCOPE project will develop a next-generation, compact high-speed atomic force microscope that seamlessly integrates with super-resolution optical microscopy and environmental scanning electron microscopy. By harnessing the strengths of each technique, SPEEDSCOPE will enable researchers to correlate surface and subsurface events, and also correlate chemical spectroscopy measurements with mechanical characterisation at sub-nanometer spatial resolution and video frame rate imaging speeds. This system will be developed by combining advanced technologies in self-sensing cantilevers and scanner designs. This advanced microscope will be used to observe unprecedented imaging of live cell membrane repair and study how micro-nano plastics influence ice crystal growth in clouds, which are key processes in life and climate sciences. Such demonstrations will open new possibilities in research at the nanoscale.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences physical sciences optics microscopy super resolution microscopy
- natural sciences physical sciences optics spectroscopy
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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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.
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.
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.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF
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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.
1015 Lausanne
Switzerland
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.