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Atmospheric bioaerosols modelling and AI-powered simulation: From pollen protein sequencing to machine learning based molecular dynamics

Objective

ILMATICS pioneers an integrated experimental–computational framework to reveal how allergenic pollen proteins influence both public health and cloud microphysics. The project establishes an end-to-end pipeline linking molecular sequence data to environmental and climatic impacts. Specifically, ILMATICS will (i) use Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) to directly sequence and identify allergenic and ice-active pollen proteins; (ii) develop a next-generation machine-learning force field (ML-FF) framework that achieves near-quantum accuracy in simulating protein–water interactions; (iii) perform molecular simulations and laboratory freezing experiments to uncover the mechanisms of ice nucleation; and (iv) refine the Adsorption Freezing Model (AFM) using simulation-derived parameters to better describe real atmospheric processes.

This uniquely timed effort leverages recent advances in nanopore protein sequencing and ML-FF methods, along with the PI’s access to Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) sequencing facilities, expertise in nucleation theory, and collaboration with EPFL’s Portable Ice Nucleation Experiment (PINE) cloud chamber for world-class validation. By connecting molecular mechanisms of pollen proteins to both allergy and cloud formation, ILMATICS will deliver new predictive tools for national meteorological and health infrastructures, directly supporting EU missions on climate adaptation and public health. The outcome will transform our understanding of pollen as a dual biological–climatic agent, enabling improved daily-life forecasts, reduced health risks, and enhanced climate resilience.

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Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) ERC-2026-STG

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Host institution

ILMATIETEEN LAITOS
Net EU contribution
€ 1 471 397,00
Address
Erik Palmenin aukio 1
00560 Helsinki
Finland
Region
Manner-Suomi Helsinki-Uusimaa Helsinki-Uusimaa
Activity type
Research Organisations
Links
Total cost
€ 1 471 397,00

Beneficiaries (1)