Advancing Sustainable Biomaterials for a Greener Future

Bridging Advanced Materials, Circularity, and AI: Strategic Partner for Horizon Europe

Yildiz Technical University (YTU) is a leading research institution committed to bridging the gap between nanotechnology, material science, and data intelligence. We are actively seeking European partners to co-develop innovative solutions for Horizon Europe 2026-2027, specifically targeting Cluster 4, Cluster 5, and Cluster 6.

Leveraging our expertise in biomaterials, nanomaterials (graphene/2D materials), biotechnology, and generative AI, we offer distinct value in four strategic areas:

Next-Gen Advanced Materials & Nanotech

Expertise: Graphene, 2D Materials, Safe-by-Design Frameworks, and EU-Japan Collaboration.

We specialize in the synthesis and characterization of advanced nanomaterials, offering specific strength in cooperation with Japan via established academic links (Tohoku University) and the development of 2D material applications.

Our Contribution:

• Development of graphene-based biofunctional materials and smart nanocomposites.

• Toxicological assessment and safety profiling of novel nanomaterials.

• Bridging EU-Japan research initiatives in biomaterials.

2. Circularity: Plastics, Textiles & Critical Raw Materials

Expertise: Chemical Engineering, Hydrometallurgy, Extraction, and Biodegradation.

We provide advanced recovery techniques and bio-based solutions to close the loop on critical raw materials, plastics, and textiles.

Our Contribution:

• Hydrometallurgical and nanotech-assisted processes for high-efficiency recovery of Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) from e-waste.

• Developing "Safe-by-Design" coatings to facilitate recycling of multilayer films.

• Biological and chemical depolymerization strategies for complex textile blends.

3. AI-Driven Material Discovery & Digitalization

Expertise: GenAI, Mathematical Modeling, Bioinformatics, and Digital Twins.

We apply Generative AI and machine learning to accelerate the discovery of new chemicals and materials, optimizing production processes via digital twins.

Key Calls:

• HORIZON-CL4-2026-01-MATERIALS-PRODUCTION-23: Accelerating discovery of chemicals/materials through AI.

• HORIZON-CL4-2026-04-DIGITAL-EMERGING-19: Challenge-Driven GenAI4EU Booster.

• HORIZON-RAISE-2027-01-01: Automated Scientific Discovery (RAISE pilot).

• HORIZON-CL4-2026-02-DIGITAL-EMERGING-53: AI methods for process industries.

Our Contribution:

• Building Generative AI models to predict nanomaterial properties and toxicity.

• Creating custom datasets for training AI agents in material science and biomedicine.

• Developing Digital Twins for optimizing manufacturing lines.

4. Energy Storage & Decarbonization (CCU)

Expertise: Bio-based Materials, Carbon Nanostructures, and Enzymatic Systems.

We contribute to the green transition by developing sustainable battery materials and technologies for carbon capture and utilization.

Key Calls:

• HORIZON-CL5-2026-09-D2-01: Producing battery-grade materials / bio-based materials.

• HORIZON-CL5-2027-05-Two-Stage-D2-07: Novel approaches towards next-generation battery concepts (IAM4EU).

• HORIZON-CL4-2026-01-MATERIALS-PRODUCTION-31: Efficient capture/purification/utilisation of CO2.

• HORIZON-CL6-2027-01-CIRCBIO-08: Biotechnology application for CCU.

Our Contribution:

• Synthesis of bio-based carbon anodes and nanomaterial additives for next-gen batteries.

• Design of porous nanocomposites for efficient CO2 capture and enzymatic conversion.

Why Partner with YTU?

1. Japan Connection: Uniquely positioned to lead or contribute to EU-Japan collaboration calls (Cluster 4) due to our dual-degree faculty and ongoing research partnerships with Japanese institutions.

2. Multidisciplinary Powerhouse: We seamlessly integrate Material Science, Biotechnology, and AI, allowing us to tackle complex RIA and IA actions.

3. Proven Track Record: Experienced partner in Horizon Europe, TÜBİTAK, and Erasmus+ projects.

4. Advanced Infrastructure: State-of-the-art facilities for nanofabrication, characterization, and high-performance computing.

Collaboration Opportunities

We are ready to join consortia as a research or technology partner for:

• Designing novel biofunctional materials and nanocomposites.

• Developing AI models for material discovery.

• Innovative recycling of CRMs and textiles.

• Bio-based solutions for energy storage.

Let’s co-create high-impact solutions for a sustainable and smart industrial future.