INVESTIGADOR RESPONSÁVEL
Nome do Investigador Responsável (IR) do projeto: Filomena Freitas
Contacto IR: a4406@fct.unl.pt
Departamento: Departamento de Ciências da Vida (DCV)
UID: UCIBIO
FINANCIAMENTO
Tipo de Financiamento: Público
Entidade Financiadora: Internacional
Referência da Call: HORIZON-MSCA-2025-DN-01
Referência: 101312678
Entidade proponente: Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest TUS
Montante total do projeto: 3 330 714,96 euros
Montante total para a NOVA.id: 279 445,32 euros
Taxa de financiamento: 100%
PROJETO
Acrónimo: SkillCirc
Título do Projeto: Empowering Innovation for a Sustainable Plastic Future
Data de início: 01/01/2027
Data de fim: 01/01/2031
Breve descrição do projeto:
The SkillCirc Doctoral Network addresses the critical challenge of transitioning from a linear plastic economy to a circular, sustainable paradigm by advancing eco-plastic technologies and fostering interdisciplinary research. This initiative brings together a multidisciplinary consortium of leading academic and industry partners to train the next generation of researchers capable of driving innovation in plastic reuse, recycling, and sustainability. SkillCirc will train 11 Doctoral Candidates through a holistic program combining rigorous scientific research, hands-on laboratory experience, and engagement with industry and policy actors. Each DC will tackle a critical aspect of the plastic life cycle, from the development of bio-based and indefinitely recyclable polymers to the integration of artificial intelligence for real-time process monitoring and optimization. Innovative approaches such as biocoloring, biocatalytic depolymerization, and eco-polymer film development will pave the way for high-performance, sustainable alternatives to plastics. Alongside technical advancements, SkillCirc will explore the social, economic, and policy dimensions of plastic use, including public attitudes, household practices, and policy narratives, ensuring that innovations are socially embedded and widely adopted. The program employs advanced training methodologies, including interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches, to equip DCs with a diverse skill set. Reflective practice, structured industry placements, and exposure to social scientific perspectives will prepare researchers to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and real-world applications. Through collaboration, innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability, SkillCirc aims to not only revolutionize the lifecycle of plastics but also cultivate the next generation of leaders who will drive transformative change in academia, industry, and policy-making, shaping a greener, more sustainable future.
