Developing the research potential of Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia

Informazioni relative al progetto

IC-UP2

ID dell’accordo di sovvenzione: 229830

Progetto chiuso

Data di avvio 1 Febbraio 2009

Data di completamento 31 Gennaio 2012

Finanziato da

• Specific Programme "Capacities": Research potential of Convergence Regions

Costo totale € 937 040,00

Contributo UE € 835 744,00

Coordinato da

TALLINNA TEHNIKAÜLIKOOL
Estonia

Final Report Summary - IC-UP2 (Developing the research potential of Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia)

Executive Summary:
IC-UP2 project "Developing the research potential of Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia" is a project financed under the "Research Potential" Programme of the 7th Framework Programme (FP7-REGPOT-2008-229830) through the Support Action funding Scheme. The project started on 1 February 2009 and it runs for 36 months.
The project coordinator is the Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia.
The goal of this project was to develop the research capabilities of the Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia, in order to fulfil its research potential in biochemistry and biomedicine, fields that complement classical chemistry. The following activities supported the objectives of this proposal: strengthening partnerships and networking with the leading European centres of competence in bio-, materials and ICT sciences; mobilising human resources; organising international conferences and seminars to attract the attention and gain the recognition of industry and the public with regard to the role of research and its contribution to society; upgrading the research infrastructure, and initiating pan-European joint research projects.
The results of this project include:
- upgrading the existing high-level research infrastructure made possible for the Institute to fully analyse the structure and properties of biologically active compounds. Updating the infrastructure provided the environment to enable early stage researchers and research specialists at the Institute to stay abreast of and participate in the scientific world;
- facilitating the exchange of methods and expertise through networking with top-level scientists in chemistry and biochemistry and developing personal contacts with leading scientists trough secondments;
- improving national and international networking through seminars, workshops and conference that helped to develop new personal contacts to future joint endeavours and ensure the sustainability of the project, and
- increasing International visibility and developing personal contacts in every level of scientist created the conditions essential to initiating and participating in pan-European joint research projects.
The main activities of the project, which have been identified as core activities (work packages 1-4) and support activities (work packages 5-6), have had favourable outcome.

Project Context and Objectives:
The objective of this project is to develop the research capabilities of the Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia, in order to fulfil its research potential in biochemistry and biomedicine, fields that complement classical chemistry. The following activities support the objectives of this proposal: strengthening partnerships and networking with the leading European centres of competence; mobilising human resources to reinforce competency in interdisciplinary biochemical and material research; organising an international conference to attract the attention and gain the recognition of industry and the public with regard to the role of research and its contribution to society; upgrading the research infrastructure, and initiating pan-European joint research projects.
Specific objectives
The IC is a nationally and internationally recognised research centre. The current project helped to develop further its potential:
1. upgrade the research infrastructure. The IC has a high-level bank of equipment, including a world-class mass-spectrometers. More impressive research results can be achieved with upgrading done using resourses of this project, which made possible to fully analyse the structure and properties of biologically active compounds at the Institute. These analyses are necessary for biomaterials, and the planned upgrades will increase the speed and flexibility of studies at the Institute. In addition, by offering early stage researchers and research specialists a world-class research infrastructure, there was created an environment in which they can stay abreast of and remain involved in the scientific world.
2. facilitate the sharing of expertise and methods. This was done through exchanges of top scientists in the chemical and biochemical fields and hireing high level specialists for longer term. Developing personal contacts with leading scientists lead to the rapid dissemination of information about the Institute possibilities to conduct the research and results of the studies. Hired specialists set up new research directions complementary to existing ones which are supporting a whole research topic of the Institute. Organisation of national and international seminars, workshops and conference lead to active cooperation and networking which is a base for future joint endeavours and ensure the sustainability of the project.
These objectives achieved through the following activities:
1. strengthening partnerships and networking with the leading European centres of competence in bio-material-ICT convergent science;
2. mobilising human resources to reinforce competency in interdisciplinary biochemical and material research;
3. organising an international conference to attract the attention and gain the recognition of industry and the public with regard to the role of research and its contribution to society;
4. upgrading the research infrastructure, and actively participating in pan-European joint research projects.

Project Results:
The main activities of the project, which have been identified as core activities (work packages 1-4) and support activities (work packages 5-6), have had favourable outcome and their milestones achieved.
– WP1 (Exchange) - four early stage research specialists were mastered their research in other research centres and four were working in Institute. There were also three secondments of specialists, one out from Institute and two to Institute. This is a work-package where technical goals for the period has completed with relatively minor deviations.

– WP2 (Conferences and Workshops) – (i) Institute was successful in organising international conference“Materials and Technologies for Green Chemistry (SustainChem)”; (ii) the BOS Roundtable “Organic Synthesis, Quo Vadis?” took place concurrently with the International Conference on Organic Synthesis Balticum Organicum Syntheticum (BOS); (iii) International Workshop on Chemometrics for early stage researchers was ogranised; (iv) several Chair oriented seminars and workshops were organised with active participation not only by early stage researchers. These international events showcased the latest research achievements of the IC at TUT and facilitated networking among the wider research community. This work-package has fully achieved its objectives and technical goals for the periood.

– WP3 (Upgrade) – three instruments have been purchased to complete the equipment inventory of the IC at TUT in its specific area of research: (i) a high-performance chromatographic system, with a set of columns for contemporary biochemical applications and consumables; (ii) a high-resolution fluorescence spectrometer, for high sensitivity analysis of biologically active compounds, and (iii) an X-ray diffractometer, which uses X-ray crystallographic methods for easy and intuitive 3-D structural characterisation The instruments purchased are in fully operation in the IC at TUT in its specific area of research, and actively used in research and training of early stage researchers.

– WP4 (Recruitment) – two-year contracts with two experienced researchers: Dr. Franz Werner from Austria and Dr. Petr Kuban from the Czech Republic were very fruitful for the Institute, both scientists brought significant complementary knowledge and contributed significantly into research in the Institute of Chemistry. The purchase of one of the instruments coincided well with the recruitment of Dr. Werner, whose area of expertise introduced a completely new field of research to the Institute.

– WP5 (Dissemination) - These international events showcased the latest research achievements of the IC at TUT and facilitated networking among the wider research community. There were several public presentations by scientists of the Institute in public radio and press. The international conference organized showed well the abilities of the Institute and the presentations of local scientists demonstrated high level of science done in the Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn Technical University. Better personal contacts will lead to future joint endeavours and ensure the sustainability of the project. The Institute groups have widened their international contacts and several are actively participating in COST activities.

All the information about the project can be found on the project website:
http://www.chem.ttu.ee/instituudist/EU_FP7_Project_en

WORK-PACKAGE 1: EXCHANGE
This package was designed to support professional development at the IC by the exchange of research staff between the IC and its partner institutions in order to share research experience and methods, and to use the obtained knowledge to evaluate academic curricula and disseminate research methods. It recognises the value of international and trans-national mobility for professional development and for the acquisition and transfer of new knowledge. This activity was implemented via reciprocal secondments. The activities were directed towards exchanging expertise in the main IC research areas – material science, biomedicine and biotechnologies.
These secondments provided an optimum environment for early stage researchers to prepare their theses and learn about new methods. This project is increasing the number of well-trained early stage researchers. Selection for secondments was based on high standards of achievement in their studies. This project is increasing the number of well-trained early stage researchers.
The project supported research specialists also and they had the opportunity to benefit from access to literature, equipment and networks relevant to their research activities, also to share teaching experience and academic methods, and to use the knowledge to evaluate academic curricula and disseminate research methods.
The activities are directed towards exchanging expertise in the main IC research areas – material science, biomedicine and biotechnologies. This work-package did not make use of all its available resources.
WORK-PACKAGE 2: CONFERENCES AND WORK-SHOPS
The project activities were aimed to elevate the scientific excellence of Institute of Chemistry at Tallinn University of Technology, and to support better integration of existing knowledge with EU’s top excellence in this field. The Institute of Chemistry has to become attractive partner for EU programs and technology platforms, also initiator of national and international activities as the Centre of Excellence and driver in strategic research initiatives on EU level.
Exchange of researchers for longer term and mutual visits are strengthening partnerships and establishing new networks with other European research institutions. The most valuable outcome from that would be initiation of new joint research activities or to join on-going research activities at European level. Cooperation in international level expects from both side equal quality of specialists and research environment and infrastructure, and this project did a lot for upgrading the research level and infrastructure in the Institute of Chemistry. Face-to-face meetings are necessary for fruitful communication and exchange of information, and international conferences and workshops enhance the training and increase the research capacity of the IC departments.
Task 1 Organisation of International Conference
The International Conference “Materials and Technologies for Green Chemistry (SustainChem)” was held 5-9 September 2011 at the Conference Centre of Hotel Olümpia, Tallinn, Estonia. During the last day of the conference a yearly meeting of COST Action CM0903 “Utilisation of Biomass for Sustainable Fuels & Chemicals (UBIOCHEM)” took place.
The conference was targeting the most crucial problems in chemistry related to creation of new materials and technologies in the context of sustainable development. It covered areas of new solvents and reaction media, reactions in these media, catalysis and bio-catalysis, and development of new analytical techniques based on miniaturization and nanotechnology for pollution prevention in chemistry. Emphasis was placed on the processing of biomass. Special lectures were devoted to toxicity problems related to new materials and technologies. The conference was bringing together Europe’s leading scientists from academia and industry who are committed not only to conducting research, but also to finding technologies that reduce the carbon footprint and dependency on non-renewable resources in order to ensure long-term economic viability. A key objective of this conference was to provide an environment that facilitates widespread interdisciplinary communication. Early stage researchers who wish to broaden their scientific interests had access to professional introductions and advice from the leading experts in academia and industry.
This is a very important year for chemists – we are celebrating the International Year of Chemistry, and our conference is one of many organized in its honour. But there is an even more significant event for our conference audience: this is the 20th anniversary of the coining of the term “green chemistry”. During these 20 years, green chemistry has become a vital part of chemistry disciplines; and our conference was devoted to the most crucial problems related to the creation of new materials and technologies in the context of sustainable development in chemistry.
European most recognized scientists in the field of Green Chemistry were taking part from our conference and delivered plenary or invited lectures. Just some of them can be named : Prof. Martyn Poliakoff from University of Nottingham, UK - Chair of the Editorial Board of the RSC journal Green Chemistry; Prof. Roger A. Sheldon, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands - introduced the E- factor concept which is now widely used for assessing the efficiency and environmental impact of chemical processes ; Prof. James Clark, University of York, UK - leader of all- European network “The Green Chemistry Network”; Prof. Miguel de la Guardia, University of Valencia; Spain,- active proponent of Green Analytical Chemistry, editor of several books on this topic.
In oral sessions 56 papers in total were presented, while 92 posters were presented in poster session.
The plenary lecturers of the conference were outstanding scientists of their area. There were also Estonian scientists in this prestigious list of invited speakers:
• Prof. Mihkel Kaljurand, Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia;
• Prof. Martyn Poliakoff, University of Nottingham, UK;
• Peter Wasserscheid; University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany;
• Prof. Roger A. Sheldon, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands;
• Prof. Alberto Marinas, University of Cordoba, Spain;
• Prof. Kostas Triantafyllidis, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece;
• Prof. Miguel de la Guardia, University of Valencia; Spain;
• Prof. Vasile Parvulescu, University of Bucharest, Romania;
• Prof. Dmitri Lemenovsky, State University of Moscow, Russia;
• Dr. R.Bogel-Lukasik National Laboratory for Energy and Geology, Lisbon, Portugal;
• P.Dominguez de Maria, RWTH Aachen University; Aachen, Germany;
• A.Lapkin University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
• R.Varma U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
• E.Lust Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Estonia
• M. Schröder, School of Chemistry; University of Nottingham; Nottingham; UK
• P.Kocovsky Department of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow , UK
• T.Adschiri Tohoku University, Sendai ,Japan
• M.Krunks Department of Materials Science, Tallinn University of Technology
• N.Gathergood Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
• A.Kahru National Institute of Biophysics and Chemistry, Tallinn, Estonia
• N.Winterton , University of Liverpool; Liverpool, UK
• J.Clark University of York, UK
The organizers were particularly happy to find many talented young researchers in poster and lecture presentations.
SustainChem conference in Tallinn attracted more than 160 participants (32 countries). The conference showed a high level of science, and provided a friendly forum for international exchange. The high activity in Central and Easter Europe region was recognized, as indicated by the number of submissions to this proceeding issue of the journal.
The participants had a chance to visit Old Tallinn and to touch the Estonian culture in the sightseeing tours as a part of the program. The conference was taking place during the time that Tallinn is the featured Cultural Capital of Europe. The organizers thought that the cultural exchange was as important as the scientific exchange.
Because of such acknowledged scientist participating the conference was very good and high level forum for specialists from IC to present the results of their research and develop contacts with groups from other countries. The conference gave great opportunity for face-to-face meetings and scientists of IC and they used it very actively.
For local organizers it was great experience of on organizational work. The process of preparation is complicated and needs smooth cooperation on different level as well with scientific part of the program as coordination with Conference Center. They managed with it very well because comments from participants after the conference were very positive.
With this conference Institute of Chemistry confirmed its good reputation on conducting international events.
Task 2 Organisation of Work-shops
Organising high-level workshops and seminars with distinguished lecturers is an important way to increase the training and research capacity of the IC departments. The workshops also provide opportunities to disseminate the findings of IC early stage researchers and research specialists. The workshops are specifically targeted to Institute research topics. The lecturers will be selected according to their scientific level, the relevance of their research subject to the IC, and their experience with and ability to provide information on EU scientific projects. The Institute’s early stage researchers and other scientific personnel will participate in these workshops.
• Workshop on Chemometrics in Rakvere, Estonia, 23rd to 27th February 2011.
Chair of Analytical Chemistry in cooperation with COST Actions CM0903 and FP0901 organized the Workshop on Chemometrics in Rakvere, Estonia from 23rd to 27th February 2011. Workshop was for early stage researchers (under 35 years old). The present course was aimed to improve the level of education in mathematical statistical methods for processing of chemical information, which is needed for understanding technical, technological and science courses. It provided a systematic view of the possibilities of chemical information processing based on mathematical-statistical and chemometrical signal processing methods.
Lecturers:
– Prof. M.Kaljurand – Tallinn University of Technology – Introduction to statistics; testing statistical hypothesis
– Prof. Richard Brereton - Centre for Chemometrics, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, UK - Chemometrics; Principal components and factor analysis, classification
– Dr. Satu-Piia Reinikainen- Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland – Chemometrics in industry, multivariate signal processing.
Workshop has 36 participants (12 early stage scientists from different chairs of Institute of Chemistry and 24 form different European countries – members of COST Actions )
• Seminar and International Conference on Organic Synthesis Balticum Organicum Syntheticum Roundtable “Organic Synthesis, Quo Vadis?”
Staff of the Department of Organic Synthesis organised a stimulating seminar which attracted high-level participants. The event was related to the International Conference on Organic Synthesis Balticum Organicum Syntheticum (BOS). We hope that the BOS Roundtable “Organic Synthesis, Quo Vadis?” (www.ttu.ee/bos-outing) has started a new tradition. The plenary speakers at the BOS Conference, Louis N. Jungheim, Eli Lilly, USA, Andrei Malkov, Loughborough University, UK, Prashant Deshpande, Bristol-Myers Squibb, USA, Hans J. Reich, University of Wisconsin, USA, Margus Lopp, Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia, Klaus Ditrich, BASF SE, Germany, and guests Prof. Oleg G Kulinkovich, Prof. Vladimir Gevorgyan, University of Illinois at Chicago, Prof. Martin Schröder, University of Nottingham, Dr. Travis Remarchuk, and moderators Prof. Victor Snieckus, Kingston, Canada, and Dr. Jaan Pesti, Bristol-Myers Squibb, USA, conducted a discussion on the hottest topics and latest developments in Organic Chemistry and Organic Synthesis, with the goal of identifying the most fruitful scientific ideas and directions for further advances. Estonian scientists, mainly from the IC, provided introductory presentations for discussion:
– Superacids and Superbases: What is a Value for Organic Synthesis? by Prof. Peeter Burk (TU, Tartu, Estonia)
– Theoretical Calculations: If to Use in Organic Synthesis Then When, Where and How? by Prof Toomas Tamm (TUT, Tallinn, Estonia)
– Organocatalysis: From Enzymes to Simple Molecules and Back towards Enzymes? by Prof. Tõnis Kanger (TUT, Tallinn, Estonia)
– "Green Chemistry" Myths and Reality by Dr. Mihkel Koel (TUT, Tallinn, Estonia).
There were 42 participants at this event, including the twenty early stage researchers and doctoral students from the Department of Organic Chemistry.
• Chair oriented seminars and workshops were organised with active participation not only by early stage researchers.
Task 3 Participation in International Conferences
Participating in international seminars, conferences and workshops is an effective way to develop expertise and expand networks, which strengthens the research capacity of the IC. Active participation in conferences and seminars helps to showcase the IC research findings to international audiences and to obtain access to new research results. These conferences and seminars strengthen existing networks and establish new contacts with a view to undertaking joint research projects or joining projects initiated by other European research institutes. The Institute’s leading specialists have benefited from project resources to make brief visits to partners’ labs and to participate in conferences that develop their expertise and expand their networks. Several conferences featured workshops for early stage researchers, whose expenses are included in the following budget information. The participants nearly always made presentations at these conferences and institutes.
Senior researchers of IC took part from 9 international conferences where they all had oral and poster presentations. Early stage researchers took part form 5 international workshops and seminars where they had opportunity to present their results of the research.
Active participation in conferences and seminars helped to introduce research results of IC at TUT to international audience and got access to new research results. These conferences and seminars were very good ground to strengthen existing networks and establish new contacts keeping in mind to initiate joint research projects or join projects initiated by other European research institutes. There were some limited resources for the early stage researchers and specialists of the Institute to participate on conferences. This project provided substantial addition to existing possibilities and giving 2/3 of all visits of project period of time.
Very often specialists have united the participation on the conference with for short term visits to partner’s labs to develop their expertise and broaden their network. Several conferences were accompanied with workshops for early stage researchers and this was also used by early stage researchers of IC. As a rule, all this participants had presentations (oral or poster) on the conferences and in the institutes visited. Especially good visibility is obtained having oral presentation on big conference.

Other international events organised by IC

The conferences are easiest way to develop personal contacts with leading scientist in the field. This is a reason way in this project great attention is turned on organizing international conference and project is supporting that.
Institute of Chemistry has been successful in organizing international events. During the project period other international events not supported by this project organized by people from Institute of Chemistry took place:
• 5th International meeting of the Nordic Separation Science Society (NoSSS); August 26–28, 2009; main organizer Prof. Mihkel Kaljurand – Chair of Analytical Chemistry. 150 participants
• 12th Nordic-Baltic IHSS Symposium on Natural Organic Matter in Environment and Technology, 14-17.June 2009; Main organizer from IC Dr.Viia Lepane –Chair of Analytical Chemistry. 110 participants
• Meeting of Nordic Baltic Network in Cristal Engineering and Supramolecular Materials, 26-29. August 2009; Main organizer from IC Prof Toomas Tamm – Chair of Organic Chemistry. 43 participants

With these locally organised events with invited high level scientists in area more researchers of Institute of Chemistry were involved in exchange of research results and development of personal contacts.

Participation in International projects and networks

It must be said that the most popular to develop international contacts is participating in COST actions.
There are three COST actions, where researchers of IC at TUT are participating:
1. CMST Action CM0903, Utilization of Biomass for Sustainable Fuels & Chemicals (2009-2013). Dr. Mihkel Koel from Chair of Analytical Chemistry was actively participating in preparation of this action, and when the action was approved, Estonia joined the action in 28.10.2009. Dr. M.Koel is MC member of the Action and actively participating in work of action. Seven early stage researchers from different groups of this action participated in Workshop on Chemometrics organized by IC. Chair of Analytical Chemistry also hosted one STM researcher from Abo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.

2. CMST Action CM0905, Organocatalysis (2010-2014). Prof. Tõnis Kanger from Chair of Organic Chemistry was actively participating in preparation of this action, and when the action was approved, Estonia joined the action in 08.02.2010. Prof. T.Kanger is MC member of the action and actively participating in the work of action and having presentations on Action meetings.

3. FPS Action FP0901, Analytical Techniques for Biorefineries (2009-2013). Estonia joined the action in 21.10.2010 and Prof. Mihkel Kaljurand from Chair of Analytical Chemistry is MC member of the Action and Dr. Maria Borissova is MC substituting member of the Action. She has taken part from the meetings of the Action with presentations. At the moment there are plan to host STM researcher from Latvia.

There were several attempts, were researchers of IC at TUT have been partners in preparation of EU research networks:
- Prof. N.Samel from Chair of Biochemistry was participating in preparation of FP7 project;
- Dr. M.Koel from Chair of Analytical Chemistry was participating in preparation of COST Action.
- Prof. R.Vilu from Chair of Biotechnology in cooperation with Dr. M. Cocaign-Bousquet from LISBP, France (was visiting IC in October, 2011) submitted to European FP7 Proteomics Infrastructure PRIME-XS a proposal “Specific growth rate dependent absolute proteome and protein half-life quantification in Escherichia coli”
Researchers from Chair of Organic Chemistry were participating in Nordic Baltic Network (2006-2009) in Cristal Engineering and Supramolecular Materials „Crysteng” coordinated by Prof. Toomas Tamm.
Group of Prof. Mati Karelson was participating in FP-6 project Grid Aided Computer System for Rapid Anti-Cancer Drug Design (2007-2010). The group was providing a seamless and uni?ed user grid interface for the targeted molecular design of potential drug candidates in the treatment of cancer. Recently this group participated in project Asymmetric Threat Environment Analysis (through Asymmetric Engagement Modelling, Modelling of Impacts on Hearts & Minds, and Threat Scenario Generation from Environmental Factors) (2010 – 2012).

WORK-PACKAGE 3: UPGRADING
Participating in pan-European scientific networks requires modern equipment for analysing and monitoring technological processes, and for developing novel methods in the areas of expertise of IC’s research groups, whose resources and results can be shared with partners.
The departments of the IC occupy renovated quarters in the Natural Sciences Building at 15 Akadeemia Road on the campus of Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia. The IC has suitable facilities and resources for training undergraduate students, and for experimental research in chemistry and chemical biology. The Institute has access to modern instrumentation such as IR and UV-Vis spectrometers, liquid chromatographs, gas and liquid chromatographs with MS detection, capillary electrophoresis instruments, and atomic adsorption spectrometers with modern sample preparation equipment. It shares access with the Institute of Gene Technology to NMR, ESI-Q-TOF MS, and MALDI-TOF MS. The Institute research groups are therefore able to conduct studies which meet international standards, and to produce reliable results.
The acquisition of new instruments to replace ageing existing ones, such as liquid chromatographs and UV-Vis spectrometers, as well as some that the IC did not possess, makes it possible for the Institute to undertake crucial analyses of the structure and properties of biologically active compounds, and to make these studies more rapid and flexible. The selection of instruments was based on improving the scientific level of the IC’s research and development activities in stereochemistry and biochemistry.
The technical specifications for the liquid chromatograph were completed by August 2009 and tenders solicited in September 2009. An offer which fulfilled the technical conditions was received and the contract with the supplier, HNK Analüüsitehnika OÜ, signed in October 2009. The liquid chromatograph was installed in November 2009 and became fully operational in December 2009.
The technical specifications for the fluorescence spectrometer were completed by February 2009 and tenders for the spectrometer solicited in March 2009. Two offers which met the technical specifications were received and the contract was awarded to the lowest bidder, KRK Labor AS, in April 2009. The high-resolution laser fluorescence spectrometer was installed in June 2009 and became fully operational in August 2009.
The latter purchase replaced the planned acquisition of a circular dichroism spectrometer, following a proposal from the Department of Organic Chemistry, which was responsible for the purchase of the third instrument. The Department was looking for an instrument for the structural elucidation of chiral compounds – the main target of their research. The objective was to obtain a new instrument that would complement existing ones. The most effective technique for structural elucidation is X-ray crystallography, but it was not considered during preparation of the project proposal because these instruments are usually very expensive and require highly experienced specialists to operate. However, at the beginning of year 2009, Department of Organic Chemistry researchers became aware of a new X-ray instrument available from the Bruker Company. This instrument uses X-ray crystallography for complex 3-D structural characterization, is desktop size and easy to operate. It can be placed anywhere in the laboratory, such as next to a synthesis hood. The instrument was affordable if different sources of funding were combined. Specialists from the Department of Organic Chemistry asked the company for trial measurements of their samples, and the results were very positive. The Department then proposed postponing the purchase of the circular dichroism spectrometer, because the information that can be obtained from X-ray crystallographic measurements of the compounds they are synthesising is much more comprehensive and easily interpreted. This change was supported by the Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, which realised that the instrument would be useful for their research on the biochemistry of proteins and enzymes. Bruker says that there are only 5 similar instruments in use worldwide, and that their customers are very satisfied with the results.
The Competence Centre on Chemical Biology funded 60% of the total cost of the purchase. Franz Werner, a recruited specialist who has worked with larger X-ray instruments and has published papers on structural elucidation, was also very supportive of the change in purchasing priorities.
Tenders for the desktop X-ray analyzer were solicited in December 2009. An offer which met the technical specifications was received. A contract with SIA Bruker Baltic was signed in February 2010. The SMART X2S X-ray diffractometer was installed in May 2010 and became fully operational in June 2010.
Mr Franz Werner, the specialist working on this obtained by project instrument (X-ray diffractometer SMART X2S), took part in the trainings for advanced users by invitations organised at Bruker AXS in Karlsruhe, Germany: Training at Bruker AXS; 17th Bruker Users' group meeting “Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction” ( 19-21.09.2010); Training at Bruker AXS; 7th workshop on Structural Analysis of Aperiodic Crystals (16-21.03.2011) where he get the experience directly from the developer.
The Institute considers this project as complementary to the European Regional Development Fund investment project, which is financed by the Estonian government. The main activities of the Upgrade work package to create a world-class research infrastructure at the IC have been completed fully. The high-performance instruments that have been purchased are opening new areas of research at the Institute of Chemistry. All of the instruments are being fully utilised, and several research partners are interested in using them as well. The fluorescence spectrometer has many functionalities, which makes it a versatile instrument for biochemical studies. The X-ray diffractometer is in especially great demand, because it provides structural information on compounds synthesised in the lab very quickly and in a format that is easy to understand. The same can be said about high performance liquid chromatograph which has became inevitable workhorse in biochemical research for chairs dealing with biochemistry and biotechnology.

WORK-PACKAGE 4: RECRUITING
The work package 4 priority was to recruit at least one research specialist for a minimum term of 2 years or permanently. This specialist was expected to establish a new line of research at the IC. Particular attention was directed towards former colleagues who were currently working outside the country. In order to encourage them to return, we offered to restart their projects that would integrate with current IC research lines and provide new possibilities for synergy. By bringing together scientists and researchers from different but closely related areas, the type of fruitful interaction that is only possible in a small collaborative group can be established and exploited.
The new research specialist was expected to:
– establish a new line of research at the IC, which would integrate with existing areas of research and provide new possibilities for synergy;
– increase the IC’s expertise in bioinformatics;
– participate in the academic work by delivering specialised courses;
– supervise and counsel a small number of doctoral students.
–
The Institute of Chemistry recruited for two-year terms two highly qualified specialists who are establishing new lines of research at the IC. Some support from the project was given to equip workplaces and necessary software licences were optained and renewed.
They are actively participating in the research work of the group, supervising and counselling early stage researchers, and have agreed to participate in the academic work of the Institute by conducting specialised courses.
Specialists recruited.
Franz Werner (born 13.12.1970) Austrian nationality;
Graduated Vienna University of Technology (TUW); Austria in 1995.
PhD dissertation at TUW, Austria, with emphasis on structure solution and refinement from X-ray powder diffraction data. „On the synthesis, structure and properties of mixed alkaline earth fluorides" (adviser Prof. Wolfgang Linert) in 2003.
Work experience
06/2009-12/2009 Postdoc with Prof. Wolfgang Linert, Vienna University of Tech-
nology (TUW), Austria;
06/2007-06/2009 JSPS fellow and visiting researcher in the laboratory of Prof. Miki Hasegawa, Aoyama-Gakuin University (AGU), Japan
12/2004-06/2007 Postdoc with Prof. Wolfgang Linert, TUW, Austria
07-08/2006 Research stay with Prof. Miki Hasegawa, AGU, Japan
09/2003-11/2004 Postdoc with Prof. Klaus Yvon, University of Geneva, Switzerland;
More than 13 scientific papers in high ranked scientific journals.
The selection of Dr. Werner coincided well with the purchase of the SMART X2S X-ray diffractometer, which has enabled the IC to establish a new line of research in the structural elucidation of organic compounds. Dr. Werner has successfully integrated into the laboratory of the Department of Organic Chemistry and is actively participating in its academic work.

Petr Kubá? (born 11.08.1973) Czech nationality;
Graduated Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic (CR) in 1996.
PhD. in Agricultural Chemistry, Mendel University, Brno, CR.
Thesis:”Electromigration methods in agrochemistry – Simultaneous separations of small anions and cation.” in 2000
Aug 2000 PhD. in Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden. Thesis:”Automated flow injection sample treatment for capillary electrophoresis” in 2000
Work experience
Aug 2001-2004 Postdoctoral Fellow at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas TechUniversity, Lubbock, TX, USA
Sep 2004-2005 Assistant professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry, Brno, CR.
Oct 2005- 2010 Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry, Brno, CR.
More than 42 scientific papers in high ranked scientific journals and 25 presentations on international scientific conferences.
Dr. Kuban is a specialist in bioanalytical chemistry whose work is complementary to the laboratory’s current research directions, and he is increasing the groups’ expertise in bioinformatics. It is possible that he will be able to remain at the IC permanently. He is well integrated into the Department of Analytical Chemistry’s laboratory, is participating in its academic work, and is supervising early stage researchers in his field.
Both specialists are very actively participating in work of research groups they are assigned and are already coauthors of several publications:
1. Marju Laars, Kerti Ausmees, Marina Kudrjashova, To˜nis Kanger and Franz Werner, rac-2,2000-Bipiperidine-1,1000-diiumdibromide, Acta Cryst., E67, Structure Reports, (2011), o1324.
2. Franz Werner,* Liina Toon and Riina Aav, rac-8a’-Methyl-3´,4´,8´,8a’-tetrahydro2´H-spiro[[1,3]dioxolane-2,1´naphthalen]-6´(7´H)-one, Acta Cryst. , E67, Structure Reports, (2011), o2460.
3. Petr Kubá?, Andrus Seiman, Mihkel Kaljurand, Improving precision of manual hydrodynamic injection in capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection, J.Chromatog. A, 1218 (2011) 1273–1280.
4. Aav Riina; Lippur Kristin; Lopp Margus; Werner Franz, (1S,2S,6S,9S)-6-Methyl-5-oxobicyclo[4.4.0]decane-2,9-diyl diacetate, Acta Cryst. -Structure Reports, (2010) 66, O2584-U669.
5. Petr Kubá? , Andrus Seiman, Natalja Makarõtševa, Merike Vaher, Mihkel Kaljurand, Insitu determination of nerve agents in various matrices by portable capillary electropherograph with contactless conductivity detection , J.Chromatog. A, 1218 (2011) 2618–2625

They both participated with oral presentation on yearly meeting of Department of Science at Tallinn University of Technology.


WORK-PACKAGE 5: DISSEMINATION

The objective of this work package was to disseminate information within the project implementation team and to its participants, as well as to the wider public. Dissemination of information is important for the project within the project implementation team and to its participants, as well as to the wider public. No separate dissemination manager was hired; it was a task of the project manager to implement this activity. In the very beginning of the project a dissemination plan was drawn up where most efficient means of spreading information were identified – web-sites, journals, frequency of publicity, etc. The plan also included printed materials on the project.
This activity on raising public awareness about the project was done by all sorts of measures: i) regularly updated web-site of IC at TUT; ii) papers in specialised and general press; iii) presentations on project and research carried out in the framework of the project in national and international seminars, conferences, workshops, etc.
One objective of disseminating project information in English was to inform among early stage researchers and research specialists at the IC and partner research institutes of secondment opportunities and give description about going on research projects and instrumentation available.
It was expected that better public awareness on research carried out in IC at TUT leads to better mutual understanding of needs between research sector and industrial sector.
Using web-media
Materials related to this project are presented on the IC web page and the continuous updating of web page of IC at TUT with material related to this project is done in Estonian - http://www.chem.ttu.ee/instituudist/EL_RP7_projekt_ee
and in English –
http://www.chem.ttu.ee/instituudist/EU_FP7_Project_en
This page gives overview about secondment possibilities among early stage researchers and research specialists of IC at TUT as well as among these in partner research institutes. The activities were directed towards exchanging expertise in the main IC research areas – material science, biomedicine and biotechnologies. Also the information about other activities is given. Reports on finished activities will be presented on this page.
All equipment acquired under the aegis of this project was purchased by means of tenders published in the press and on the Internet, in conformance with legal requirements. In the University there is a special Public Procurement Office responsible for this kind of procedure according to input (technical descriptions, etc.) from Institute. Now the instruments are put into work and all they are in public use actively by specialist and early stage researches in research.
The separate web page for international conference was set up
http://www.sustainchem2011.ttu.ee
It was continuously updated and used for fast dissemination of information about conference news and in the time of conference also about the conference program. All printed material about the conference was copied also in electronic format on this page. The support obtained from the project was mentioned on a special webpage launched for the international conference.
An advertising campaign was organised with international research partners to reach the right potential recruits. Some positive responses were received and good candidates applied. One candidate was discovered from partner institute – Vienna University of Technology, Austria. The second candidate was found through targeted e-mailing and personal contacts from Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry, Brno, Czech Republic.
Using printed media
One example of activity on this is the brochure about the Institute, where all research groups are presented with short description of research and with list of important publications. It was well accepted activity and all chairs and groups of the Institute participated in preparation. This brochure is now very good material to hand over for visitors of the Institute and chairs and groups are using it well. This is only printed source to get overview about the research and important publications in Institute.
Booklet can be downloaded also from Institute web-page http://www.chem.ttu.ee/chem_en .
The preparation of international conference was going separately with its own publicity campaign to advertise the international conference in Estonia and in abroad both, inside the research community as well as industry representatives. For that dissemination of information targeted printed materials were prepared – fliers and first circular were prepared in printed form; abstract book in printed form; advertisement in journal “Green Chemistry”
The events outside Tallinn were advertised in local news.
The BOS Speaker’s Roundtable on Organic Synthesis, Quo Vadis? was introduces in local newspaper “Saarte Hääl” and local radio “Kadi” in 26th of June 2010.
Work-shop on Chemometrics was introduced in local newspaper “Virumaa Teataja” in 28th of February 2011. It was outstanding international event for that small place and raised the visibility of IC at TTU.
Using public presentations
In Estonia there is Archimedes Foundation, which is responsible among other duties supporting EU FP7 programs. They regularly organise training courses and seminars related to different aspects of programs.
The project was presented at the 05.02.2010 national seminar “The Influence of Scientific Cooperation Programs” organised by the Archimedes Foundation.
Seminar was focused on the influence of EU Framework programs on Estonia.
Peter Fisch (from EC Science Directorate, Head of evaluation and monitoring unit) introduced results of FP 6 assessment and results and situation with research of FP7 influence.
Net Effect Ltd and VINNOVA representatives Dr. Katri Haila ja Peter Stern introduced the results about studies on influence of PF6 in Finland and Sweden. In the second part of the seminar attention was on FP7 research potential program which happened to be successful for Estonia. The program and results were introduced by Stefan Weiers from EC Science Directorate.
Additionally project coordinators presented their projects:
• A.Reinart Tartu Observatory, EstSpacE
• G.Jervan Tallinn University of Technology, CREDES
• M.Koel Tallinn University of Technology, IC-UP2
• R.Lillak Estonian Research Institute of Agriculture, FLAVOURE.
It was a valuable experience that led to sharing knowledge gained from the project with other institutions.

Since 2008 regularly is hold Scientific Conference of the Faculty of Science at TTU.
This is very good place for introduction of the research done in Institute, and every year there are representatives from IC:

IV scientific conference, 3rd of November 2011:
From IC
• Oleg Kulinkovich (IC), Studies toward elaboration of a new approach to chiral organometallic reagents
• Petr Kuban (IC), CAPILARY ELECTROPHORESIS – a small tool for large accomplishments in point of care analysis
• Franz Werner (IC), TUT Crystal Structure Service

III scientific conference, 4th of November 2010:
From IC:
• Toomas Tamm (IC) Molecular conformations
• Aivar Lõokene (IC) Molecular mechanisms of endodelic lipolysis
• Riina Aav (IC) NMR experiments, predictions and real molecules

II scientific conference, 9th of October 2009:
From IC:
• Margus Lopp (IC) Chemical synthesis and chemical biology
• Mihkel Koel(IC), Ionic liquids and analytical chemistry
• Jelena Gorbatšova (IC) Sample introduction in capillary electrophoresis based on digital microfluidics.

Exchange of information on seminars and work-shops
The positive effect of contacts with scientists from industry was seen from the event The BOS Roundtable on “Organic Synthesis, Quo Vadis? “ . High level specialists moderated by representatives from academia Prof. Victor Snieckus, Kingston, Canada, and industry Dr. Jaan Pesti, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., USA, had a discussion on the hottest topics and latest developments in Organic Chemistry and Organic Synthesis, with the particular goal of sifting out the most fruitful scientific ideas and directions for further advances not only in university labs but also. These good contacts confirmed that for the developing contacts, they need to be invited to the conference prepared and it is taken into plan. The involvement of industry as an integral part of the scientific programme represents a distinctive value-adding characteristics.
Another positive effect was seen from the Workshop on Chemometrics in Rakvere, Estonia from 23rd to 27th February 2011. It was cooperation with COST Actions CM0903 and FP0901 for early stage researchers (under 35 years old). Participants had possibility to introduce their own work with the help of lecturers to find possibilities to use chemometric methods in their studies. Also they had possibility to train themselves on using of these methods provided by lecturers. Lecturer Dr. Satu-Piia Reinikainen from Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland, provided information about Chemometrics in industry, multivariate signal processing, what participants assessed as very valuable part of the work-shop.
Face-to-face meetings are necessary for fruitful communication and exchange of information, and international conferences and workshops enhance the knowledge and increase the research capacity of the IC departments. Institute has seen the positive effects of contacts with scientists from other countries in international conferences. Several lecturers were asked later to visit the Institute of Chemistry (D.Lemenovski A.Timerbajev F.Foret P.Hauser) where they had seminars. Chair of Biotechnology has been very active to develop contacts, and they are looking forward to have joint research project with The School of Engineering at San Sebastián related to University of Navarra and University of Toulouse, representatives of that were having seminars in Institute.
Organising high-level workshops and seminars with distinguished lecturers was an important way to increase the training and research capacity of the IC departments. The workshops and seminars also provide opportunities to disseminate the findings of IC early stage researchers and research specialists, because these events were specifically targeted to Institute research topics. The lecturers were selected according to their scientific level, the relevance of their research subject to the IC, and their experience with and ability to provide information on EU scientific projects.
The International Conference organized was widely advertised in the research community as well as to industry representatives. Beside conference web page the information about the conference was spread with flyer sent by ordinary mail and by e-mail to different lists in web. It was possible to publish an advertisement in journal Green Chemistry.
European most recognized scientists in the field of Green Chemistry were taking part from our conference and delivered plenary or invited lectures. Just some of them can be named : Prof. Martyn Poliakoff from University of Nottingham, UK - Chair of the Editorial Board of the RSC journal Green Chemistry; Prof. Roger A. Sheldon, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands - introduced the E- factor concept which is now widely used for assessing the efficiency and environmental impact of chemical processes ; Prof. James Clark, University of York, UK - leader of all- European network “The Green Chemistry Network”; Prof. Miguel de la Guardia, University of Valencia; Spain,- active proponent of Green Analytical Chemistry, editor of several books on this topic.
In August 2011, just before the conference, it was also advertised in the local news. From this rose contact with two radio stations – Vikerraadio and Kuku - and after the conference there were talks about the conference and Green Chemistry. Local cultural newspaper “Sirp” published long interview with R.Sheldon and M.Koel about sustainable development and green chemistry related to conference.
For local organizers it was great experience of on organizational work. The process of preparation is complicated and needs smooth cooperation on different level as well with scientific part of the program as coordination with Conference Center. They managed with it very well because comments from participants after the conference were very positive.
With this conference Institute of Chemistry confirmed its good reputation on conducting international events.
Contacts and cooperation with other institutions
Good contacts with the Federation of Estonian Chemical Industries (FECI) representing Estonian chemical industry were used in preparation of International Conference building up the program and finding lecturers. Integrating the industry into the scientific programme added distinct value to the event. Conference topic was related to sustainable development, what is very crucial for chemical industry nowadays, and representatives of Estonian chemical industry had possibility to establish contacts with academia. There is active cooperation between the Federation of Estonian Chemical Industries and Estonian Chemical Society, where researchers from IC are participating. This is a good channel for exchange of information about research results from Academia and needs of Industry. Through this some contracts have been signed and advanced training courses organised with industrial partners.
An important adjunct to scientific research is participation in the work of the Competence Centres; two departments of the Institute are currently participating in the Food and Fermentation and the Cancer Competence Centres. This shows also the recognition of
Competence Center of Food and Fermentation Technologies (CCFFT). ( www.tftak.eu) is founded on 15 June 2004 by the Tallinn University of Technology and six partner companies. From TTU main partner is Chair of Biotechnology (Prof. Raivo Vilu), which is active in development of technologies and models which allow for a rapid quantitative characterization of the physiology of microorganisms in technologically important growth space regions. High throughput cultivation methods which, together with the use of omics methods and the modelling of cell metabolism, will lead to a rapid accumulation of quantitatively reliable data on the cells’ metabolism in their growth space are developed in cooperation with Competence Centre of Food and Fermentation Technologies.
The Competence Centre for Cancer Research (CCCR) (www.vtak.ee) was founded in 2005 by the Tallinn University of Technology and seven partner companies with the aim to improve the quality of cancer therapy by developing and implementing new diagnostic platforms and offering the pharmaceutical industry new drug candidates. CCCR is a research and development institution that is certified by the Estonian Ministry of Education and Science. However, the focus of CCCR’s research and development activities is on the implementation of the results in clinical practice. From TTU the Chair of Biochemistry (Dr. Ivar Järving) and Chair of Organic Chemistry (Prof. Margus Lopp) are cooperating with Center. This project has increased the capacity of the IC to participate in the activities of the Competence Centres what is seen in increasing number of joint publications.
If previous cooperation with competence centres is directed towards development of materials and technologies for applications, there is cooperation with centre of excellence – Centre of Excellence in Chemical Biology (www.cecb.ut.ee) where researchers from Chair of Organic Chemistry (Prof. Margus Lopp) we have worked since 2009 together with the researchers of Tartu University, to develop new anti-viral and anti-bactericidal means for medicine.
The overall objective of the Centre of Excellence is to boost top level research in chemical biology for providing tools to study and fight against infectious diseases.

WORK-PACKAGE 6: MANAGEMENT

Current project was submitted and is running by IC at TUT alone. There were no changes in the legal status of the beneficiaries during this time.
The successful completion of work packages 1, 2 and 4 required a good exchange of information and contacts with groups from other institutes and universities, in Estonia and abroad. The work groups used their existing contacts and coordinated their activities with colleagues from other countries with regard to the exchange of specialists, organising seminars and accomplishing conference tasks.
Prof. Mihkel Kaljurand, Director of the IC, was the project coordinator and Dr. Mihkel Koel, the leading research scientist of the Department of Analytical Chemistry, was the project manager. They were responsible for the implementation of the project.
The project coordinator liaises with the Council.
The project manager was responsible for the daily operations, technical coordination and implementation of the project as well as reporting. Contractual obligations were respected with regard to reporting.
In addition to their IC responsibilities, several staff members managed specific tasks related to the project work packages; they received remuneration from the project for their duties. Mihkel Koel was remunerated for his responsibilities as project manager. Time sheets were maintained for all project functions. Seven additional staff members were hired to perform short-term or unique project tasks.
Total asignment of staff to project:
1 Mihkel Koel project manager
2 Kristiina Kreek assistance with recruitment
3 Klairy Palk assistance with upgrading
4 Anna-Liisa Peikolainen assistance with secondments
5 Maria Borissova assistance with international conference and seminars
1a Priit Eek secondments Short term
2a Kertu Kosk seminars Once
3a Riina Aav upgrading Once
4a Aivar Lõokene upgrading Once
5a Kristjan Tammeorg dissemination Short term
6a Laine Kalapüüdja assistance with accounting
7a Elvi Muks assistance with dissemination Short term
8a Richard Adang Translation of brochure Once
9a Dolores Lindsay Language editing of the reports

The highest body of the project management structure is the Council of the IC at TUT acting as the Steering Committee of the project. It is the highest coordinating and decision making body on all matters related to Institute of Chemistry and involvement of the Council to the matters of the current project guaranteed the coherence and matching between the project and the interests of the IC at TUT. The Council consists of Heads of the Chairs, two representatives of scientists and one representative form Faculty of Chemical Engineering.
During the project 14 management meetings were held at the Institute during this period for project coordination and resource distribution. The following staff participated in the meetings: Prof. M. Kaljurand, Prof. M. Lopp, Prof. T. Kanger, Prof. R. Vilu, Prof. T. Tamm, Prof. M. Karelson, Prof. N. Samel, Dr. M. Koel, and Dr. E. Muks.


Potential Impact:
This project has been very valuable for developing the research potential of the Institute of Chemistry. Successful outcomes have been realised in every work package.
SWOT analysis of Institute of Chemistry at TUT
Strength Weaknesses
• Unique combination of interdisciplinary research fields of chemistry, biotechnology and material science under one unit
• High quality laboratory infrastructure accessible by research groups from chemistry, biotechnology and material science area, possible synergy for cooperation
• Presence of high internationally recognized scientific excellence with ‘excellent to good’ marks given to research groups based on national research evaluation, experienced professors with international reach.
• Excellence in chemical synthesis, metabolomics, molecular design and chemical analysis
• Tight and constructive cooperation with national Centres of Excellence, Competence Centres and spin-off companies making the Centre an attractive cooperation partner in the long run • Small number of openings for doctoral students
• Small number of international post-doc positions
• Inconsistency of national funding for research infrastructure – the available infrastructure depreciates fast and there are risks of missing new rounds of funding
• Insufficient number of researchers in early stage and specialists to start own research projects
• Low presence of international lecturers
• Low experience in commercialization of R&D results and low interaction with international industrial partners
• Poor quality of RTD project managers
Opportunities Threats
• Becoming a National Centre of Excellence in the new round of funding
• Internationalization and capacity building through researchers mobility schemes
• Increasing RTD project management capacity through attracting experienced international research managers
• Utilization of complementary cohesion funding schemes during 2010-2015 to further build up capacity and ensure long term commitment of leading foreign scientists
• Key professors leaving the Institute due to retirement or more lucrative propositions in foreign universities or industry
• Low ability of attracting national funds to the Institute
• Marginalization of selected R&D directions due to insufficient drive from local industry/focus on academic research


Experience from REGPOT-2008 project IC-UP2

This project with its activities provided experience on exchange of early stage researchers and specialists from and to the institute; organising international conference, workshops and seminars with outstanding speakers from other European research centres covering the most prospective research fields of IC; participation of specialists of IC in international conferences with presentations; recruiting experienced specialists to develop a new complementary research fields at IC and some improvement of equipment park of IC
The main target was to get new knowledge, obtain practical experience and research methods on these areas and search for applications in biomedicine and biotechnology, also introduce into research practice sustainability and green chemistry principles.
Locally organized international conferences
This kind of conference in a convergence region is a good opportunity to introduce the scientific potential existing in the region and thereby to create advantageous platform for future and/or further cooperation. Facilitating personal contacts of researchers and scientists is one of the main objectives of a conference, especially with a view to possible joint research projects. Key objective of conference is to provide an environment leading to broadly-based interdisciplinary communication. This conference serves as a network strengthening and building tool and will allow demonstrating the activities of research groups of IC at TUT at an international environment, accompanied with the dissemination of information and promotional activities to ensure increased visibility of IC at TUT. Those looking to broaden their scientific interests can get professional introductions and advice from the best academic and industrial experts in this area. Scientist-to-scientist meetings allow researchers from Institute an opportunity to present their research work and communicate with researchers from other countries.
Participation in international seminars/conferences/workshops
The participation in international seminars/conferences/workshops is effective tool to widen the expertise and is easiest way to develop personal contacts with leading scientist in the field. Active participation in conferences and seminars helps to introduce research results of IC at TUT to international audience and get access to new research results. Especially good visibility was obtained having oral presentation on big conference. Several conferences were accompanied with workshops for early stage researchers and this is a reason to support more people. As a rule, all this participations must have presentations. Advantageous is that trips can be united with visiting other labs and having presentations in group seminars.
Workshops and seminars with distinguished lecturers
Important part in increase both the training and research capacity of chairs at IC at TUT is the organization of high level workshops and seminars with distinguished lecturers. The workshops and seminar are used to disseminate the newest information and the research methods in the field from direct sources among the early stage researchers and research specialists. Also these seminars are very good ground for developing personal contacts with leading scientist and to strengthen existing networks keeping in mind to initiate joint research projects or join projects initiated by other European research institutes. For early stage researchers these seminars are the best source for widening their circle of scientific interest and learn more about new methods.
Secondments for researchers
Increase the mobility of researchers both early stage researchers as well as experienced ones is directed to deepen multilateral cooperation between research institutions. The exchange of specialists and knowledge will increase the number of informed people, providing an interdisciplinary approach to contacts, attending to the complexity of the problems to be solved in this area. The secondments aim for early stage researchers is to provide the environment for the early stage researchers to work on their thesis and learn more about new methods. Important is the two-way exchange of researchers from the Institute and partner organizations, which better is opening possibilities to initiate new joint research activities or to join on-going research activities at European level.
The result on exchange of specialists is foreseen in strengthening partnerships and finding new partners from other Centres of Excellence and supporting the professional development of researchers of IC, especially facilitate the exchange of know-how and methods in the biochemical and material research and biotechnology.
New directions in research
This project gave huge contribution compared to existing usual possibilities of groups of IC, and as a result can be pointed on some changes and additions in research directions of IC:
organic chemistry:
o using environmentally friendly solvents are introduced in wider scale;
o new knowledge on stereo-elective organic synthesis to generate and utilize novel chemical synthetic methodologies and techniques was obtained and introduced,
o development of environmentally benign organocatalysts got support;
biochemistry:
o new experimental methods were developed for biocatalysis ;
o system biology involving metabolomics;
biotechnology
o using new calculation methods and models for description of metabolism and processes in cell were developed;
o develop environmental biotechnological processes and use of biomass;
o development studies on biotechnology are widened.
analytical chemistry
o importance of studies on the structure/property relationships and large scale molecular design is grown;
o nanomaterials (organic and carbon aerogels) for analysis and separation methods;
o miniaturization and simplification of analytical techniques was proved to be important direction in development.
Most of the research topics of IC at TUT benefited from the cooperation facilitated by the current project because of sharing with our European partners.
Scientific Conference of the Faculty of Science at TTU is very good place for introduction of the research done in Institute, and every year there have been representatives from IC.
One example of activity on dissemination was the brochure about the Institute, where all research groups are presented with short description of research and with list of important publications. It was well accepted activity and all chairs and groups of the Institute participated in preparation. This brochure is now very good material to hand over for visitors of the Institute and chairs and groups are using it well. This is only printed source to get overview about the research and important publications in Institute.
Booklet can be downloaded also from Institute web-page http://www.chem.ttu.ee/chem_en .

Materials related to this project are presented on the IC web page and the continuous updating of web page of IC at TUT with material related to this project is done in Estonian - http://www.chem.ttu.ee/instituudist/EL_RP7_projekt_ee
and in English –
http://www.chem.ttu.ee/instituudist/EU_FP7_Project_en
This page gives overview about secondment possibilities among early stage researchers and research specialists of IC at TUT as well as among these in partner research institutes. The activities were directed towards exchanging expertise in the main IC research areas – material science, biomedicine and biotechnologies. Also the information about other activities is given. Reports on finished activities will be presented on this page.


Archimedes Foundation isa n organization in Estonia, which among other duties is responsible for supporting EU FP7 programs. They regularly organise training courses and seminars related to different aspects of programs. Our project was was presented at the national seminar “The Influence of Scientific Cooperation Programs”, which was focused on the influence of EU Framework programs on Estonia. It was a valuable experience that led to sharing knowledge gained from the project with other institutions.
International events organized by the project were advertised in local news also, in local newpapers and raadio programs.
The BOS Speaker’s Roundtable on Organic Synthesis, Quo Vadis? was introduces in local newspaper “Saarte Hääl” and local radio “Kadi” in 26th of June 2010.
Work-shop on Chemometrics was introduced in local newspaper “Virumaa Teataja” in 28th of February 2011. It was outstanding international event for that small place and raised the visibility of IC at TTU.
In August 2011, just before the conference, it was also advertised in the local news. From this rose contact with two radio stations – Vikerraadio and Kuku - and after the conference there were talks about the conference and Green Chemistry. Local cultural newspaper “Sirp” published long interview with R.Sheldon and M.Koel about sustainable development and green chemistry related to conference.
For local organizers it was great experience of on organizational work. The process of preparation is complicated and needs smooth cooperation on different level as well with scientific part of the program as coordination with Conference Center. They managed with it very well because comments from participants after the conference were very positive. With this conference Institute of Chemistry confirmed its good reputation on conducting international events.
The REGPOT-2008 project IC-UP2 carried on 2009-2012 was good experience on attempt to widen international contacts and very good feedback for lying long term plans for IC.
Institute of Chemistry is concentrated in its activity on chemical science and technology, also on biotechnology and molecular technology.
It includes:
• Teaching, research and development activity;
• Knowledge-based service, including advance training courses;
• Insure the next generation of educators and researchers;
• Cooperation with speciality societies and networks;
• Introduction of results and activities to wider audience
Main research areas in IC are established throughout its long history (i) analytical chemistry, (ii) theoretical and computer chemistry, (iii) chemistry of natural compounds and biochemistry, (iv) biotechnology, (v) organic synthesis. Great part of development of scientific potential of IC has been assessed on several international evaluations and with transformation from independent Institute to part of Faculty in Tallinn Technical University. These events eliminated old and stagnated branches and the remaining was related to new and developing areas of chemical sciences and technology. The same way was influenced the personal of the Institute.


Strategic plan of Institute of Chemistry 2011-2015

Mission: Mission of Institute is research in chemical science and technology, also on biotechnology and molecular technology and to educate related specialists for society who can advocate sustainable development.
Institute will provide continuous teaching on chemistry and biochemistry. In every area the research and teaching is conducted in high international level.
Vision 2015: Institute of Chemistry following new directions in development of high education and chemical sciences has become important centre of education and research. Vision 2020: Institute of Chemistry is internationally recognized centre on Chemical Sciences and important partner for Estonian and foreign companies.

Aims:
Research groups of Institute are leading in TTU. International recognition is obtained with publication of results in the most prestigious journals and collections.
Chemists and biochemists of the Institute in their research will lead the principles of green chemistry and sustainable development.
Institute specialists provide knowledge-based service, including advance training courses for local industry.
Intensive communication between research groups side by side gives good base for cooperation. Active participation on Yearly Faculty conference will enlarge the co-work and synergy inside the Faculty.
Actively is developing cooperation with speciality societies and networks both locally and internationally.
Active participation in local and international, including EU programs; participation of European networks (COST, RTN) and joint research with other universities;
Active participation on international conferences, workshops, seminars with introduction of results and activities from the Institute to wider audience
Active organization of international seminars, workshops and conferences with high level international lecturers in Institute.
Providing working environment what is supporting the international cooperation.
Increase the number of secondments in foreign universities and involvement of visiting professors in education and research.

Good contacts with the Federation of Estonian Chemical Industries (FECI) representing Estonian chemical industry were used in preparation of International Conference building up the program and finding lecturers. Integrating the industry into the scientific programme added distinct value to the event. Conference topic was related to sustainable development, what is very crucial for chemical industry nowadays, and representatives of Estonian chemical industry had possibility to establish contacts with academia. There is active cooperation between the Federation of Estonian Chemical Industries and Estonian Chemical Society, where researchers from IC are participating. This is a good channel for exchange of information about research results from Academia and needs of Industry. Through this some contracts have been signed and advanced training courses organised with industrial partners.
An important adjunct to scientific research is participation in the work of the Competence Centres; two departments of the Institute are currently participating in the Food and Fermentation and the Cancer Competence Centres. This shows also the recognition of
Competence Center of Food and Fermentation Technologies (CCFFT). ( www.tftak.eu) is founded on 15 June 2004 by the Tallinn University of Technology and six partner companies. From TTU main partner is Chair of Biotechnology (Prof. Raivo Vilu), which is active in development of technologies and models which allow for a rapid quantitative characterization of the physiology of microorganisms in technologically important growth space regions. High throughput cultivation methods which, together with the use of omics methods and the modelling of cell metabolism, will lead to a rapid accumulation of quantitatively reliable data on the cells’ metabolism in their growth space are developed in cooperation with Competence Centre of Food and Fermentation Technologies.
The Competence Centre for Cancer Research (CCCR) (www.vtak.ee) was founded in 2005 by the Tallinn University of Technology and seven partner companies with the aim to improve the quality of cancer therapy by developing and implementing new diagnostic platforms and offering the pharmaceutical industry new drug candidates. CCCR is a research and development institution that is certified by the Estonian Ministry of Education and Science. However, the focus of CCCR’s research and development activities is on the implementation of the results in clinical practice. From TTU the Chair of Biochemistry (Dr. Ivar Järving) and Chair of Organic Chemistry (Prof. Margus Lopp) are cooperating with Center. This project has increased the capacity of the IC to participate in the activities of the Competence Centres what is seen in increasing number of joint publications.
If previous cooperation with competence centres is directed towards development of materials and technologies for applications, there is cooperation with centre of excellence – Centre of Excellence in Chemical Biology (www.cecb.ut.ee) where researchers from Chair of Organic Chemistry (Prof. Margus Lopp) we have worked since 2009 together with the researchers of Tartu University, to develop new anti-viral and anti-bactericidal means for medicine.
The overall objective of the Centre of Excellence is to boost top level research in chemical biology for providing tools to study and fight against infectious diseases.

List of Websites:
Materials related to this project are presented on the IC web page and the continuous updating of web page of IC at TUT with material related to this project is done in Estonian
http://www.chem.ttu.ee/instituudist/EL_RP7_projekt_ee
and in English –
http://www.chem.ttu.ee/instituudist/EU_FP7_Project_en