Emerging Nanotools for Soft Matter Characterisation and Manipulation

Advanced nanotools including atomic force microscopy, optical microscopy and correlative microscopy are enabling techniques for discoveries and knowledge generation in nanoscale science and technology. Many R&D efforts have been directed towards the performance improvement of such kinds of techniques for soft matter. However, the greatest challenge faced by these leading edge techniques is the realization of high spatiotemporal resolution, non-invasive, multi-scale and multi-dimensional imaging and manipulation. We therefore propose NanoRAM, a 10 ESR Marie Skłodowska Curie Action Doctoral Network by close collaboration between academic and industrial partners around the theme of innovative nanotools and their industrial applications. NanoRAM will train a new generation of ESRs in the development and application of newly developed manipulation and characterisation nanotools in soft matter research. ESRs will be cross-pollinated with concepts and skills in instrumentation and soft matter characterisation, in particular in fast nanomechanical spectroscopy, nano-robotics, correlative super-resolution nanoscopy, nano biomechanics and mechanotransduction. These skills are applied to reveal for the first time the fast, high resolution, multi-level and 3D information for single cell biomechanics and nanomedicine. Excellent training in new scientific and complementary skills, combined with international and intersectoral work experience, will instil an innovative, creative and entrepreneurial mind-set in ESRs, maximising economic benefits based on scientific discoveries. These specialised, highly trained ESRs will have greatly enhanced career prospects and qualifications for access to responsibility job positions in the private and public sectors. The ultimate goal of NanoRAM is to consolidate Europe as the world leader in innovative nanotool techniques and their emerging applications in soft matter fields such as biomechanics, mechanobiology, and nanomedicines.