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ISSUE 04/2025

QUARTERLY Digital Magazine for Developments in Sustainable Technology

FOCUS TOPIC:

Achievements from our Members

Editorial TOGETHER WE GROW: BNN'S REVIEW AND OUTLOOK FOR 2026

“Another year is over…” and so many things have been achieved in 2025. Despite the challenges the BNN team faced, we can summarize, that our team and our network have further developed. This makes BNN a competent asset of the R&D&I ecosystem related to Advanced Materials and SSbD.

Impressum: Owner and publisher: BioNanoNet Forschungsgesellschaft mbH Kaiser-Josef-Platz 9, 8010 Graz, Austria UID: ATU 63046279, FN 285326 y

Graphic Design & Layout: Jenny Zeevi Cover: Genert AI

I N N O VAT I O N I S T H E K E Y . S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y L E A D S T H E WA Y .

Those who have participated in our Annual Forum 2025 in Linz have noticed that physical meetings are extremely important for initiating new collaborations. After the very busy months of responding to the HEU-2025-calls, the early October event marked the beginning of the preparation for the 2026 and 2027 proposals. The key strengths of BioNanoNet association are its coverage of complementary expertise, paired with the wide distribution of countries as well as organization types involved as members. Consortia are already established to develop proposals for the forthcoming calls – get active in the association to be involved and benefit from joined forces! A crucial group to create new sustainable technological solutions are innovative minds in all fields. For this reason, BNN supports them in making their excellent work visible. Their ability to innovate ensures that science and research remain dynamic can solve societal challenges. Explore their research output in this edition of the digital magazine and at our ANTHOS’26 conference in Vienna, initiated and led by BNN, jointly supported by 11 EU-funded projects!

B N N . AT

Next to a career with scientific orientation, also business-oriented professional pathways

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equally gain impact. We proudly state that approximately one third of our members are companies, ranging from small businesses to global players. Therefore, our network intrinsically gains opportunities to translate science into applications and products. This requires open-minded individuals like Gerald Resch of our new member Resch GmbH – see his interview in this magazine. Furthermore, shaping the future of the research ecosystem is not only an opportunity, it is a responsibility for any engaged scientist. Thus, the BNN team, together with all BioNanoNet members, may join forces to contribute to the Advanced Materials Act, the next framework program of the European Union, the Advanced Materials funding initiatives at regional, national, and European level via InnoMatSyn-project, the implementation of SSbD, and the next steps forward from “needs to solutions”. BNN also supports the ambition of “scientific collaboration without borders” as a cornerstone to maintaining peace! The BNN-team looks forward to seeing you at ANTHOS’26 in Vienna! Andreas & the BNN Team

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Achievements from our Members

Table of contents ISSUE 04/2025

Editorial

BNN News

Advancing Safe and Sustainable Chemistry: PLANETS Featured at Vienna PGC & SusChem-AT Event

7 9

SSbD Bootcamp of the JRC in Ispra Annual Forum Brings Together Spot lights from Life Science and SSbD in Linz BNN Brings Safety and Sustainability of Materials to European Researchers’ Night

The Future of Europe’s Research

Podcast - Sustainable. Safe. Responsible

Recap Venice Training School 2025

Achievements from our Members

Theresa Rienmüller and Robert Winkler receive ERC Starting Grants

NanoMedicine-Austria starts collabo ration with recently created Italian Nanomedicine Platform

Innovative aircraft guide vane: CHASE gives sustainability wings

Four More Years of Digitalization: FFG Extends DIH SÜD Through 2029

5G Playground: Carinthia’s Future Lab gets a new Start

OCSiAl Launches Development of the World’s Largest Graphene Nanotube Manufacturing Hub in Luxembourg

Member Updates

Member Interview: Franz Pirker, Business Development Manager AC2T

Interview with Oliver Kathol (BABEG) – BNN leads the AdMa ecosystem, Carinthia is ready to engage

Interview with Gerald Resch (Resch GmbH) – anything is possible

Interview with Cris Rocca (University of Birmingham) – there are always millions of solutions

Interview with Danail Hristozov (Greendecision Srl.) – education, research and innovation will save the worlds

Wood K Plus : ATRIUM - Alternatives for an effective Transition to sustainable, Reusable and recyclable construction products by the Innovative production of User and eco-friendly bio-based Materials

Uni Ghent: Exploring the impact of volumetric additive manufacturing of photo-crosslinkable gelatin on mesenchymal stromal cell behavior and differentiation for Future Climate Protection Technologies

TU Graz opens up new avenues in lung cancer research with digital cell twin

Strengthening our biomaterials & tissue-engineering community: recap of International Workshop

16th NanoTrust Conference – Safe- and-Sustainable-by-Design in Practice: Nanomaterials, Advanced Materials, and Beyond

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Graphene Nanotube ESD Chemical Gloves: A Game-Changer for Safety and Comfort in Personal Protective Equipment

1st International Symposium and 2nd National Symposium on Research and Innovation in Nanoscience

Assessing the Feasibility of AI-Based Forecasting to Prevent Medicine Shortages — Outcomes of the REMEDY Project

Project Presentations & Updates

Recap of ATIMA activities (September – November 2025)

Interview with Selestina Gorgieva (University of Maribor) – coordinating NABIHEAL project, in which BNN implements SSbD

Explore PLANETS’ Latest Training Materialsl

Consumer needs for baby products – Have your say!

Outlook: BNN Events & Events Support by BNN

Finally

Acknowledgements 5

BNN NEWS

Advancing Safe and Sustainable Chemistry: PLANETS Featured at Vienna PGC & SusChem-AT Event

SSbD Bootcamp of the JRC in Ispra

On 26 November 2025, PLANETS participated in an event jointly organised by Platform Green Chemistry (PGC) and SusChem-AT at the Vienna University of Technology. Bringing together stakeholders from policy, industry, research and the start-up community, the meeting focused on “From idea to impact: Start-ups and safe and sustainable by design for future-oriented chemistry.”

Clemens Wolf (BNN) introduced the evolving EU Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) framework, outlining its importance for developing safer and more sustainable advanced materials.

A warm thank you goes to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Regional Development and Water Management (BMLUK) and the Austrian Environmental Agency for making this event possible. More details about the event here.

At the end of October (28-30.10) over 50 participants from 16 different countries gathered in Ispra to learn more about the new advanced in “Safe and Sustainable by Design”. This boot camp united stakeholders from different fields (LCA, safety experts etc.) and various institutions: research centres, universities, consultants, SMEs, and large industry. Many of the participants had already experience working with SSbD and shared their insights in exhibited posters. During the breaks these posters were valuable starting points for discussions and networking activities.

At the site of the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission close to Lago Maggiore the third edition of the SSbD boot camp concentrated on the updates of the revised SSbD framework published earlier this year. In particular, this included a presentation of the new structure of the framework, the introduced “Scoping Analysis” and the more detailed assessment of the socio-economic sustainability. Talks from experts and JRC members on the different dimensions and aspects of the revised SSbD framework gave a diverse intellectual input.

Martin Himly (PLUS) demonstrated how SSbD principles can be practically implemented to support innovation within green chemistry start-ups. Their presentation is available under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International in the PLANETS Community in Zenodo with DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17817072. PLANETS of this

was pleased to be part forward-looking exchange.

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BNN NEWS

Special emphasis was also given to the evaluation and documentation of the assessments, and an overview and current status of the PARC toolbox. This was complemented by three Hands-on exercises: on Scoping Analysis, Safety Assessment (Addressing chemicals, materials, processes and products) and Environmental Sustainability Assessment. In small groups the participants worked together in interdisciplinary teams to solve tasks of SSbD practitioners. In intense discussions the challenges and chances of implementing the SSbD assessments in practice came to light and gave fascinating new insights into the framework. In a final written essay, the participants were asked to reflect on the scope and role of SSbD, challenges for implementation and coming up with a project to apply SSbD on. The heavy brain work was compensated by a nice social program from the organizers. At the first evening the group was treated with typical Italian aperitivo, and the second evening offered a great social dinner at Hotel Europe directly at the bank of Lago Maggiore.

Judging from the pleasant atmosphere and the vivid talks the ideas for some interesting collaborations might have found their start in Ispra on this evening. We thank all organizers for this great event!

The final version of the revised framework will be published mid of December 2025. Recordings of the boot camp are available online.

Contact Katharina Lang-Hogrefe katharina.lang-hogrefe@bnn.at bnn.at

Annual Forum Brings Together Spotlights from Life Science and SSbD in Linz The BioNanoNet community gathered in Linz, Austria on 7 October 2025 to discuss how advanced technologies and sustainable industrial practices are being translated into the life sciences sector. The BioNanoNet Annual Forum 2025 took place at the LIT Open Innovation Center in the vibrant city of Linz, where four of our members co-hosted and welcomed us to their facilities. Attendees were treated to site tours at Johannes-KeplerUniversity (JKU) IPC Institute, Competence Center CHASE, RECENDT and Wood K

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plus. The partners shared fascinating insights into their R&D work, including different methods for non-destructive testing, the production of sustainable polymers, a showcase of polymer waste recycling, and possible applications of bacterial cellulose. The forum started with a welcome by Alberta Bonanni, vice-rector of JKU, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation and was followed by keynotes from Dr. Michael Egermeier, Wood K plus (“Bacterial Cellulose Emerging as No-

BNN NEWS

vel Material for Advanced Applications”), Dr. Markus Brandstetter, RECENDT (“Bio-NanoMed & Chemical Analytics at RECENDT”), and Patrick Pammer, CHASE (“Upgrading Plastic Wastes to Industrial Feedstocks”). After the four site visits, the group reconvened in the LIT Open Innovation Center for a Life Science Session spanning a wide range of topics starting with a talk by Werner Haselmayr, JKU, on the “Internet of Bio-Nano Things: Extending Connectivity to Unconventional Domains”. Max Sonnleitner, CEO of Genspeed Biotech, shared his insights from years of experience on how to bring an innovative idea to a final product in diagnostics. This was complemented by a perspective from BNN’s regulatory specialist Daniel García emphasizing the need for innovation support including regulations. The second session was dedicated to Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) with updates from current and past projects as well as newly established methodologies. Milica Velimirovic of VITO presented the first case study with “Applying the SSbD4CheM Toolbox in Case Studies for Sustainable Material Design”. Danail Hristozov of GreenDecision presented new methodologies from the project SUNRISE and the NSC Community with his talk “SSbD in the NSC field – Tiered SSbD approach and e-infrastructure. Next, Martin Himly of PLUS presented PINK and PLANETS projects, showing fascinating work on how to implement SSbD in concrete industrial chemicals and materials value chains. Finally, Andreas Barth of Wood K plus shared the lessons learned and op-

portunities of Social LCA within the SSbD Framework and put a spotlight on this often underrepresented dimension of SSbD. The highlight of the event was the final Networking Pitch Session, moderated by Clemens Wolf from BNN. Fifteen members had a single slide and 30 seconds to pitch their expertise and seek collaboration opportunities. It was a lively session showcasing the great diversity and potential within the BNN network, and it sparked lots of ideas and initiated new connections! We ended the evening with a networking buffet and drinks. As always, we greatly enjoyed the time with our members and especially getting to see the facilities, where our Linz-based members are doing valuable research and development. Huge thanks again to JKU, CHASE, RECENDT and Wood K plus! Finally, thank you to Franz Pirker, one of our newest members from AC2T research GmbH, for the delicious wine from his own vineyard AmSee in Burgenland! The event agenda is available here. The pitches presented are available for BioNanoNet members here.

Contact Clemens Wolf clemens.wolf@bnn.at bnn.at

BNN NEWS

BNN Brings Safety and Sustainability of Materials to European Researchers’ Night The Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) concept starts at the very earliest stages of the design process – so why not plant the seeds early with the researchers and consumers of the future?

safety and sustainability over the entire life cycle of a material or product – those who were interested wrote down suggestions for improving safety and sustainability of materials to decorate our tree.

On 26 September 2025, BNN had a hands-on station at European Researchers’ Night, held as “Life is Science” at Universalmuseum Joanneum in the city center of Graz. Organized by BioNanoNet Association member acib, Life in Science was Austria’s only ERN event this year!

We then explained to parents and other adults attending about how we use SSbD in projects such as NABIHEAL (showing examples of bandages and other woundhealing materials in our box), PLANETS (using examples of baby spoons with plasticizers as well as materials with flame retardants) and SSbD4CheM (using examples of Matchbox cars!). We also talked about ATIMA and InnoMatSyn, our projects in advanced/innovative materials (AdMa) in Austria and Europe, respectively.

Amid a sea of fascinating stations in the lobby of the museum complex, BNN asked visitors to reach inside our “magic box” to see if they can recognize any objects inside simply by feeling and not looking. Children were asked to describe the materials and write their descriptions on our board. Then, after learning the basic concepts of SSbD – thinking of

We were thrilled to have roughly 60 people participating in our hands-on activity at an event with 750 visitors in total! Contact Beatriz Alfaro Serrano beatriz.alfaro@bnn.at bnn.at

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BNN NEWS

The Future of Europe’s Research The European Research and Innovation Days 2025 (16-17 September) in Brussels focused on shaping future EU policies, funding (successor program for Horizon Europe), boosting competitiveness, and enhancing researcher careers within the European Research Area (ERA). The 6th edition served as a platform for high-level dialogue on innovation, startup support, and inclusive research frameworks. Key topics and discussions included: (1) Strategic Debates on the next EU long-term budget (post-2027) and new policy initiatives (e.g., Startup Act); (2) Recommendations for the "European Research Area (ERA) Act" to improve working conditions, mobility, open science, and knowledge valorization; and (3) Discussions about the next R&I framework program („Choose Europe“). Andreas Falk (BNN) participated in the context of BNN’s advanced materials related roles in the European ecosystem, coordinating the EU-project InnoMatSyn as well as the Austrian ecosystem in the frame of ATIMA-project. Besides excellent networking, strategic relevant meetings with key stakeholders (e.g. representatives from the European Commission, IAM-I association, EUMAT, NSC Community, Manufuture, etc.), also the learnings derived from the discussions made this a valuable event:

Action item for policy makers: Public financial resources need to be accessible for start-ups, scaleups and designed to specifically support local/regional value creation. Action item for funding bodies and policy makers: Speeding up the translation – reduce administrative burden, focus on an enabling eco system.

Podcast - Sustainable. Safe. Responsible. Materials that are sustainable, safe and responsible. That sounds great, but how do you design products that truly meet these requirements?

Action item for legislators and policy makers: Regulation can facilitate innovation, if the laws are developed consistently and harmo nized across member state borders.

In the new episode of the acib podcast ‘Wissen schafft Macht. Macht aber nix. Oder? WISM²ANO Ein Podcast der BioteXpert*innen’ (Knowledge creates power. But that doesn't matter. Or does it?) two of our colleagues talk about the EU initiative ‘Safe and Sustainable by Design’ and how sustainable innovation can succeed.

Action item for scientists and researchers: Focusing on the socie tal challenges can increase the positive perception, trust and impact of science.

Listen to Clemens Wolf and Katharina LangHogrefe (BNN) as well as Barbara Petschacher (acib), in a conversation about responsibility, design and the future of sustainable development of chemicals and materials.

Contact

Listen now (podcast in German)

Andreas Falk andreas.falk@bnn.at bnn.at

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BNN NEWS

Recap Venice Training School 2025 Innovating with Purpose: A Hands-on Journey into Functional, Safe and Sustainable Advanced Materials Every year a vibrant community of young researchers and seasoned experts convenes in the historic centre of Venice for a fascinating Training School. The 13th edition of the Venice Training School took place from 9-13 June 2025 to focus on advancing knowledge and practice in Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) assessment and decision-making for advanced materials (AdMa) and chemicals, and explore cutting-edge methodologies for ensuring the safety, functionality, and sustainability of innovative materials. Jointly organised by the EU funded projects AlChemiSSts, BIOSAFIRE, CheMatSustain, CHIASMA, DESIDERATA, EuMINe Cost Action, INSIGHT, INTEGRANO, MACRAMÉ, PINK, PLANETS, POTENTIAL, REPOXYBLE, SiToLub, SSbD4CheM, SUNRISE, SUPREME, SURPASS, supported by the Ca’ Foscari University Venice, and having the NSC as a special partner, this edition of the school brought in diverse international perspectives on different topics: • Setting the scene: SSbD policy con

text in the EU

• Environmental, health and safety assessment (Steps 1-3 of the SSbD 14

framework), including intrinsic ha zard properties, New Approach Me thodologies (NAMs), and relevance of in vivo studies (invertebrate and vertebrate models) • Integrated Life Cycle Sustainabi

lity Assessment (Steps 4-5 of the SSbD framework), including Envi ronmental Life cycle assessment (LCA), Social LCA, and Life-Cycle- Costing

• Integrating functionality conside

rations into SSbD workflows: the role of material characterization and the assessment of functional performance

• Addressing the complexity of ad

vanced materials and their inter actions: Multiscale modelling and multidimensional analysis

• Enhancing the uptake of SSbD by

industry, especially SMEs: user- friendly decision support tools

Over 100 participants from 30 countries across Europe, Asia, and America joined the event, which featured interesting lectures and practical hands-on sessions pre-

pared by 44 lecturers and instructors from 35 organisations in 14 European countries. The sessions aimed to foster an integrative understanding of the school’s topics, providing an interactive learning environment and direct access to key experts. Here are some numbers about the background of the participants: 32% postdoctoral and senior researchers, 17% PhD students, 3% master students, 13% consultants, 13% SME CEOs & managers, 3% technical staff, 5% University professors, 3% R&D specialists, 2% laboratory heads, and others from academia, policy, and industry, as well as representatives of the European Commission. During the four days, participants were able to gain in-depth interdisciplinary understanding of key topics about the safety and sustainability of advanced materials, engage in dialogue with peers and experts on a variety of cutting-edge topics, gain needed skills to drive responsible innovation, as well as benefit from networking opportunities in a relaxed atmosphere. The hands-on training sessions provided a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications. From the PLANETS project, Martin Himly (PLUS) presented the training on scoping/ Tier 1 exercise on the PLANETS workflow, Anita Sosnowska and Natalia Buławska (QSAR Lab) had an oral presentation on the in-silico modelling approaches, as well as a hands-on session. Additionally, several partners chaired sessions and Beatriz Alfaro (BNN) prepared and moderated the Feedback session. From the SSbD4CheM, the colleagues from AHAVA (Dror Cohen and Ze’evi Maor) gave QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

an oral presentation in the NAMs session on the ex vivo skin model and first validation data (as an example for NAMs)). Yvonne Kohl assisted the interactive School and engaged with many participants. This edition also featured contributions from representatives of the JRC and the European Commission, who shared insights on the latest advancements in SSbD. The PLANETS and SSbD4CheM projects were heavily involved in the organisation (Organising and Scientific Committees) of the School. Special thanks go to Susanne Resch and Beatriz Alfaro (BNN), Paola Basso, Marilena Uliana and Danail Hristozov (Greendecision), Yasemin Ertugrul and Judith Friesl (YORDAS), Stefania Melandri & Giulia Mora (Warrant Hub), Martin Himly (PLUS) and all the members of the organising and scientific committees for making this edition of the school such a huge success! Training materials: • Agenda is available here • Recordings are available on the NSC You Tube channel – Playlist Venice School 2025 • Book of abstracts and all teaching

materials are publicly available un der a Creative Commons Attributi on 4.0 International license – DOI:

10.5281/zenodo.17305646

Contact Beatriz Alfaro Serrano beatriz.alfaro@bnn.at project-planets.eu ssbd4chem.eu 15

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Theresa Rienmüller and Robert Winkler receive ERC Starting Grants

he two TU Graz researchers have been awarded the prestigious European funding prize of around 1.5 million euros each for their projects on improved therapy for traumatic brain injury and 3D nanoprinting of micro-robots.

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Achievements from our Members

As the European Research Council announced in September, two further ERC Starting Grants have been awarded to Graz University of Technology (TU Graz). Theresa Rienmüller from the Institute of Biomechanics and Robert Winkler from the Institute of Electron Microscopy and Nanoanalysis were able to secure this highly endowed prize with their submitted projects. Theresa Rienmüller is researching the electrical stimulation of nerve cells as a therapy for traumatic brain injury, while Robert Winkler is developing a 3D printing method for small robots that could be used to treat diseases in the human body. Both researchers will receive funding grants of around 1.5 million euros. Robert Winkler will also obtain almost a quarter of a million euros to purchase a fluorescence microscope and a magnetic control unit.

müller and Robert Winkler on this great success,” says Andrea Höglinger, Vice Rector for Research at TU Graz. “The two ERC Starting Grants emphasize the high quality of research at TU Graz in the fields of biomedical engineering and nanotechnology, which are part of our scientific Fields of Expertise Human & Biotechnology, and Advanced Materials Science. The two funded projects have the potential to break completely new ground internationally.” Theresa Rienmüller: Improved therapy for traumatic brain injury In her NeuroVitaliser project, Theresa Rienmüller will be conducting research on the recovery process of nerve cells after a traumatic brain injury. She will investigate how the healing process can be supported by targeted electrical stimulation. Traumatic brain injuries affect several million people worldwide every year, and although survival rates are increasing, many patients continue to suffer from persistent symptoms as conventional methods often fail to grasp the complexity of recovery.

Of this year’s 478 ERC Starting Grants 20 were awarded to Austrian institutions, putting Austria in 10th place in Europe. “ERC Grants are among the most prestigious funding awards in Europe, and I congratulate Theresa Rien-

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Robert Winkler: 3D-printed micro-robots

Theresa Rienmüller from the Institute of Biomechanics and Robert Winkler from the Institute of Electron Microscopy and Nanoanalysis at TU Graz. Image source: Wolf - TU Graz

In her research, Theresa Rienmüller combines various sensor and laboratory data to obtain a meaningful overall picture of the course of recovery and the relevant factors. The starting point is nerve cell cultures that have been subjected to trauma. The damaged cell cultures are then electrically stimulated at different times and to different degrees. In order to assess the effects of electrical stimulation, Theresa Rienmüller will investigate, among other things, how the morphology and electrical activity of the cells changes and which proteins they produce. This multimodal data is merged with artificial intelligence to recognize patterns that previously remained hidden. The researchers want to find out which type of electrical stimulation best promotes the healing of nerve cells. Short biography of Theresa Rienmüller Theresa Rienmüller has been interested in data since studying telematics with a focus on image and signal processing at TU Graz, which she completed with her master’s thesis “Self-localization for soccer robots of the middle size league”. As part of her doctoral thesis at the

University UMIT Tirol, she deepened her research in the areas of sensor fusion and analyzing complex data sets. Her expertise in modelling dynamic systems laid the foundation for her move into biomedical engineering, where she now combines computational and analytical approaches with cell experiments. Theresa Rienmüller received the research award of the Styrian Brain Research Initiative in 2022 for her co-authored publication “Light stimulation of neurons on organic photo capacitors induces action potentials with millisecond precision”.

Contact Theresa RIENMÜLLER Ass.Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.techn. TU Graz | Institute of Biomechanics theresa.rienmueller@tugraz.at

Robert Winkler will produce tiny robots that have the potential to be used to treat diseases in the human body. So-called micro-bots with a size of less than 10 micrometers would be small enough to move around in blood vessels and, for example, deliver drugs exactly where they are supposed to have an effect. So far, such miniature robots are still too large, their propulsion is difficult, and their capabilities are also limited. Robert Winkler wants to solve these three problems with 3D nanoprinting technology, which he has helped to develop at TU Graz in recent years. With focused electron beam induced deposition, it is possible to build complex 3-dimensional structures from individual molecules whose individual elements are around 50 nanometers in size. Robert Winkler will pursue two concepts for efficient transport. First, the robot is to be driven by a rotating helix, the shape of which is being tested and optimized in simulations and real experiments. The second propulsion concept is modelled on cilia: tiny hair-like structures that are used by certain microbes to move around. Robert Winkler wants to produce both the cilia and the helices from a magnetic material and set them in motion using a weak magnetic field. He already has specific areas of application in mind for the micro-robots. Using plasmonic gold antennas, which can be heated to high temperatures using special light, they could destroy tumor tissue or kill viruses and bacteria. Other models could transport drugs in a container or collect unwanted substan-

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ces or objects. Combined with the plasmonic antennas, the robot could act as an artificial immune cell and kill collected viruses. Short biography of Robert Winkler After studying technical physics, Robert Winkler completed his doctorate at the Institute of Electron Microscopy and Nanoanalysis at TU Graz on the topic of “Fabrication of functional, freestanding 3D nano-architectures via Focused Electron Beam Induced Deposition”. For his doctoral thesis, he received the State Prize for the best doctoral theses from the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research as well as the sponsorship award for doctoral theses with particular social relevance from the Technology and Society Forum. As a postdoc in the “CD Laboratory for Direct-Write Fabrication of 3D Nano-Probes”, together with its head Harald Plank, he has significantly further developed 3D nanoprinting. The nano-probes developed together with a company partner are now in practical use as sensors for technical devices. During his research work, he won the Best Paper Award in the journal “Nanomaterials”. Alongside his physics degree, Robert Winkler completed a master’s degree in guitar at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz and worked for several years as a music teacher, musician and composer.

Contact Robert WINKLER Mag.art. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.techn. BSc TU Graz | Institute of Electron Microscopy and Nanoanalysis robert.winkler@tugraz.at 19

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NanoMedicine-Austria starts collaboration with recently created Italian Nanomedicine Platform

aniel Garcia, MSc, Regulatory Specialist at BioNanoNet Forschungsgesellschaft mbH (BNN) has interviewed Professor Giovanni Tosi, Coordinator of the recently created Italian Nanomedicine Platform (INP). A new national initiative is taking shape at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Unimore), Italy, the Italian Nanomedicine Platform (INP). Inspired by the European Technology Platform for Nanomedicine, the INP aims to create a solid technical and scientific foundation for the development of advanced and precision medicine products in the therapeutic, diagnostic, and preventive fields.

Professor Giovanni Tosi

Bringing together over 30 laboratories and 200 researchers across disciplines such as physics, engineering, chemistry, biotechnology, and medicine, the platform promotes collaboration between universities

and centres of excellence, driving innovation from basic research to clinical translation. It also integrates regulatory, technological, and safety expertise to support the entire innovation chain, from early design and formulation to preclinical testing and industrial transfer, ensuring that scientific advances are effectively transformed into real-world medical solutions. We spoke with Professor Giovanni Tosi, PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, coordinator of the INP and member of the Department of Life Sciences at Unimore, to learn more about the platform’s mission, its multidisciplinary approach, and its ambitions for the future of nanomedicine in Italy and beyond.

Professor Tosi, how did the idea for the Italian Nanomedicine Platform come about, and what was Unimore’s role in its creation? My sincere thanks to Daniel and BNN for offering the Italian Nanomedicine Platform and me the opportunity to present our activities. The idea arose from a simple question voiced at a European meeting: why does Italy, with such a strong scientific tradition in pharmaceutical technology and materials science, lack its own national nanomedicine platform? From that challenge, the concept quickly evolved. Building on long-standing col-

laborations within the European Technology Platform for Nanomedicine (ETPN), we began mapping national expertise and infrastructure. At the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, we already had an established community working on nano systems for drug delivery and diagnostics, so Unimore naturally became one of the founding centres. Our university provided the coordinating nucleus, the initial network of laboratories, and the scientific leadership required to transform a good idea into a functioning national structure.

The INP is inspired by the European Technology Platform for Nanomedicine. What are the main goals of this national initiative, and why is it important for Italy’s scientific landscape? The Italian Nanomedicine Platform aims to connect the many islands of excellence that exist in Italy, universities, IRCCS hospitals, CNR institutes, and industry, into a single, coherent ecosystem. Its objectives are to: • Facilitate the translation of nanoscale research into therapies, diagnostics, and medical devices. • Establish a shared technical, scientific framework for design, characterization, safety assessment, and regulatory compliance. • Strengthen Italy’s participation in European partnerships and Horizon Europe calls. • Provide a unified voice that represents national expertise in international fora. For Italy, this initiative is strategically essential, i.e., it transforms fragmented excellence

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into coordinated innovation capacity and ensures that Italian research remains visible, competitive, and influential at both the European and global levels.

The platform brings together many disciplines, from physics and chemistry to biomedicine and engineering. How does INP promote this integration, and what advantages does such an interdisciplinary approach offer? Nanomedicine lives at the crossroads of materials science, biology, and clinical need. The INP is organized into working groups, ranging from Nanotherapeutics and NanoDiagnostics to Regenerative Medicine, Physico-Chemical Characterization, and Clinical Translation, each coordinated by experts from complementary domains. Regular meetings, shared databases of competencies, and an open digital infrastructure allow chemists, physicists, engineers, clinicians, and industrial partners to co-design projects from the outset. This structure accelerates innovation because problems of formulation, targeting, safety, and regulation are addressed simultaneously rather than sequentially.

One of INP’s missions is to translate scientific discoveries into real medical products. How does the platform support researchers in moving from laboratory research to clinical and industrial application? Translation is embedded in every activity. The INP offers access to a national network of laboratories for pre-clinical evaluation, GLP/GMP testing, and regulatory advice, helping researchers bridge the critical gap

between discovery and first-in-human studies. Industrial members contribute expertise in scale-up, quality-by-design, and manufacturing, while clinical partners guide trial design and patient-need alignment. Through collaborations with agencies such as AIFA and EMA, and with companies including Chiesi, Bracco Imaging, Dompé, and Menarini, the platform helps ensure that promising nanotechnologies evolve into safe, effective, and commercially available products.

INP also emphasizes education and training. What opportunities does the platform offer to young researchers and students who wish to specialize in nanomedicine? Training is a cornerstone of the initiative. The INP collaborates with doctoral programmes such as Health Innovative Products and Technologies (HIP-TECH) and with the European Technology Platform for Nanomedicine to organize seminars, workshops, and mobility opportunities. A recent example is the seminar “Nanoparticle Medicinal Products: Key Considerations for Early Development,” delivered by Daniel Garcia (BNN) and jointly organized with the National Centre for Gene Therapy and RNAbased Drugs. This session trained early-stage researchers on regulatory pathways, classification of nanotechnologies, and design of First-in-Human studies. Beyond single events, the platform promotes PhD courses, summer schools, and interdisciplinary internships that integrate pharmaceutical technology, materials science, bioengineering, and clinical translation.

Finally, how do you envision the future of the Italian Nanomedicine Platform? What role do you hope it will play in shaping the next generation of medical technologies? The future lies in turning Italy’s scientific knowledge into tangible health solutions. The platform is evolving toward a permanent national hub supporting advanced materials, gene and RNA therapies, and digital health integration. Over the next few years it aims to: • Establish shared validation pipelines and reference laboratories for nano medicine testing. • Act as an interface with regulatory aut horities and industry to accelerate market access. • Serve as a training and innovation in cubator for the next generation of re searchers and entrepreneurs. Ultimately, the vision is for the platform to make nanomedicine not just a research field, but a pillar of future healthcare, driving safer, smarter, and more personalized therapies for patients worldwide.

Contact Prof. Giovanni Tosi, PhD Full Professor in Pharmaceutical Technology Coordinator of "Health Innovation Products and Technologies “PhD Program Secretary of European Technology Platform for Nanomedicine UNIMORE Scientific Delegate for Nanomedicine Lab Nanotech Te.Far.T.I. Department of Life Sciences Via Campi 103, 41124 Modena, Italy Phone: +39 059 2058563

FOCUS TOPIC

Innovative aircraft guide vane: CHASE gives sustainability wings

n cooperation with our partners FACC, Victrex, LIT Factory (JKU Linz), and the Institute of Polymer Product Engineering (JKU Linz), we have developed a hybrid molded exit guide vane for aircraft turbines. It was an important contribution to sustainability in the aircraft industry that makes it possible to get from A to B with a smaller carbon footprint and is recyclable. Taking off to new horizons The exit guide vane is made of thermoplastic composites, i. e. carbon-fiber reinforced plastics, instead of aluminum. This saves weight because thermoplastic composites are lighter, while still offering the required mechanical performance in terms of strength, stiffness, and others. This way, it saves fuel, reduces carbon emissions and even increases the flight range. The project was called “Advanced Hybrid Molded Thermoplastic Exit Guide Vane” and was coordinated by the Competence Center CHASE, Area 1 from 2019 to 2023. The research scientist responsible was Daniel Laresser.

And the Award flies to In 2025, together with our partners, we were nominated for the prestigious JEC Innovation Award 2025 in the Aerospace-Parts category. Our project was among the top 3 finalists. The award is a significant recognition and has been presented annually for nearly 30 years to honor cutting edge projects which demonstrate the full potential of composite materials. In the end, Airbus SE took first place. Congratulations! We are still delighted with our joint success in competing at this high-profile international level, the achievements of all involved and the benefits it will bring to industry. Christian Marschik, CHASE Area 1 Manager:

“We are thankful to everyone involved for enabling us to fly this far.” Contact Dr. Dalibor Truhlar Head of Corporate Communications Competence Center CHASE GmbH, Hafenstr. 47-51, 4020 Linz, Austria dalibor.truhlar@chasecenter.at chasecenter.at

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business models and processes, sustainability and circular economy, and the future of work. This structure allows DIH SÜD to support companies precisely where their individual digitalisation needs lie and to guide them in identifying which steps are meaningful and economically relevant.

Four More Years of Digitalization: FFG Extends DIH SÜD Through 2029

rom the very beginning, BABEG has played a key role in shaping the development of DIH SÜD. As a regional development and investment agency, it not only contributes strategic perspectives but also actively connects local companies with research, education and innovation support. The Digital Innovation Hub South Austria (DIH SÜD) is a central point of contact for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in southern Austria seeking to harness the opportunities of digital transformation. As a competence network, it brings together universities and research institutions with SME with the aim of making digital technologies understandable, accessible and economically viable for regional businesses. Through this low-threshold approach, innovations are not only communicated but actively integrated into everyday corporate practice. DIH SÜD provides companies with a platform

where knowledge, technology and real-world applications come together. Over the past four years, more than 400 activities for SMEs have been carried out, reaching over 7,000 individuals. The hub is financed by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) and the regional government of Carinthia and Styria. The effectiveness of this approach is reflected in the fact that DIH SÜD has been extended by the FFG for another four years. This extension underscores the hub’s relevance and proven success in the region, enabling long-term continuation and expansion of digitalisation initiatives. Content-wise, DIH SÜD focuses on six core thematic areas that form the foundation of modern digital development: production and manufacturing technologies, digital security, data and artificial intelligence, digital

The impact of DIH SÜD is shown in many success stories. One example is a traditional butcher shop that, with DIH SÜD’s support, became a “Butcher 2.0.” By testing AI tools, using digital communication and developing an online sales strategy, the business gained visibility, attracted new customers and positioned itself modernly—without losing its identity. Artificial intelligence has become a major point within DIH SÜD. From courses such as “Learning to Prompt Effectively” to AI language models and even the development of company-specific AI applications, DIH SÜD offers a broad spectrum of support for both beginners and advanced users.

Digitalisation does not have to be abstract, complicated or expensive. With the right support and a reliable partner like DIH SÜD, technological potential becomes real, tangible business development. These examples show how regional companies are strengthened through knowledge, networking and technology and how digital transformation can succeed.

Contact Martina Eckerstorfer DIH SÜD GmbH martina.eckerstorfer@dih-sued.at dih-sued.at

“Data is the new gold.” But how do we protect it? Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important for small and medium-sized enterprises. DIH SÜD offers penetration tests in which simulated cyberattacks reveal vulnerabilities in a company’s IT infrastructure. And what if an attack happens despite all precautions? In such cases, the “Cyberattack Emergency Plan” guide provides practical recommendations and clear steps to maintain operational capability and respond effectively.

QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

What makes 5G so special? 5G standalone technology offers extremely high data rates, minimal latency, and simultaneous connections for thousands of devices - essential for modern applications such as autonomous driving, Industry 4.0, smart cities, and digital medicine. A flagship project for Carinthia

5G Playground: Carinthia’s Future Lab gets a new Start Test environment for digital applications enters next project phase – companies and research institutions can use customized 5G infrastructure from Drei.

ith the relaunch of 5G Playground Carinthia at the Lakeside Science & Technology Park in Klagenfurt, one of Austria's most modern 5G test laboratories is entering a new phase. The test environment has been further developed with technology partner Drei and is now available again to companies, start-ups, and research institutions that want to test digital products, processes, and applications under real-world conditions.

The 5G Playground is operated by BABEG providing its powerful 5G standalone network. 5G standalone (SA) means that the entire infrastructure, from the air interface to

the network core, operates exclusively with 5G network elements. Only 5G SA enables dedicated resource allocation within the network. Such a specialized network, known in technical circles as a private slice network, meets the requirements of the 5G Playground in terms of bandwidth, latency, and security. The Carinthia University of Applied Sciences is providing technical support for the project. Together, they are creating a platform for test applications at the highest level - local, secure, and independent of the public network.

The 5G Playground Carinthia is an independent test lab for future technologies based on the fifth generation of mobile communications – 5G. In a secure, locally limited campus network, real application scenarios can be simulated, prototypes tested, and innovative ideas brought to market maturity. Technology partner Drei has built a customized mobile communications infrastructure based on the 5G Playground's requirements catalogue – Carinthia's first 5G private slice network with edge computing. This enables BABEG to process application data locally. This has created the basis for a state-of-the-art test environment that sets new standards.

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Research that is understandable and relevant The last years projects with a total value of over seven million euros were implemented with the support of the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG). Two current examples illustrate particularly clearly the potential of the 5G Playground: • UNIVAIS: This project is developing an autonomous vehicle that not only works with its own sensors but is also connected to drones and traffic cameras. Data is ex changed in real time via the 5G network to improve the vehicle's safety and respon siveness – especially in regions without traditional in frastructure. • MINERWA: This project demonstrates how technology can make culture more accessi ble. It enables virtual museum visits via mixed reality applications. Visitors can ex perience exhibitions regardless of location, walk through digital spaces, and interact with content as if they were there in person. 5G makes these real-time experiences technically possible.

Become part of the digital future now The 5G Playground Carinthia is open for external use: businesses and research institutions can rent the lab for their own projects and customize it to suit their needs -whether for developing new products, optimizing existing systems, or prototyping applications.

With the 5G Playground Carinthia, BABEG offers a unique platform for digital development. Access is open, practical, and customizable - a clear advantage for anyone who wants to actively shape the future. “With the 5G Playground, we are creating a concrete place where ideas become innovation,” explains Markus Hornböck, Managing Director of BABEG | Carinthian Business Development and Investment Company Ltd. “Our vision is to give companies and research institutions a space where they can experience 5G technology in a practical way and use it for their development.”

Contact BABEG eckerstorfer@babeg.at 5gplayground.at Financed by the regional government of Carinthia

OCSiAl Launches Development of the World’s Largest Graphene Nanotube Manufacturing Hub in Luxembourg • A flagship graphene nanotube facility in Luxembourg, a $300 million deeptech investment, is set to put Europe at the forefront of advanced materials innovation. • The Luxembourg facility will bring more than 300 new jobs and serve as a scalable energy-efficient manufactu ring center. • The launch follows a recent investment round from Luxembourg investors and the signing of a long- term land lease with the State of Luxembourg.

QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

On 11 November 2025 OCSiAl, a Luxembourgbased deep-tech company and the global leader in graphene nanotube technologies, has announced the signing of a land lease, launching the development of its flagship graphene nanotube production center in Differdange, Luxembourg, that will become the world’s largest graphene nanotube production facility. This official announcement is a culmination of a years-long effort by the company and the Luxembourg Government, including most recently an investment round raised from a “club” of Luxembourg-based investors and the signing with the State of Luxembourg of a long-term land lease for a 3.63-hectare site in Differdange. 29

“The launch of this future production center in Differdange perfectly illustrates our ambition to position Luxembourg as a key player in industrial innovation in Europe. This major investment in graphene nanotubes demonstrates investors’ confidence in our ecosystem and highlights the potential of our business parks to host high-tech industrial projects. We are proud to support OCSiAl in this strategic step, which will contribute to the creation of skilled jobs, the reputation of Luxembourg in deeptech, and the transition to a more sustainable and competitive industry,” said Lex Delles, Minister of the Economy, SME, Energy & Tourism. “OCSiAl’s investment highlights Luxembourg’s role as a platform for long-term innovation and smart industrial development,” added Gilles Roth, Minister of Finance. “This project reflects the value of combining private sector vision with public infrastructure support.”

protective equipment,” said Alain Kinsch, a member of the OCSiAl Board of Directors. “We thank the Luxembourg Government for enabling this project through the land lease and for fostering an environment where innovation and industrial ambition can thrive.”

Founded in Luxembourg in 2010, OCSiAl has become the world’s largest producer of graphene nanotubes, a next-generation material that offers exceptional performance to a multitude of products used in everyday life. OCSiAl’s nanotubes, currently produced only in Serbia, where the company is increasing production capacity fourfold, are already used in more than 10% of smartphones sold today and in over one million electric vehicles worldwide.

Contact

Member Updates

“This is a landmark step for OCSiAl and for Differdange,” said Norbert Becker, another OCSiAl board member. “It’s a project that combines visionary science, strong local roots, and a long-term investment in jobs and know-how.” With a planned investment of $300 million and creation of over 300 new jobs, the facility, to be launched in stages from 2028 to 2030, will strengthen Europe’s role in the global advanced materials value chain and serve as a development hub for the next generation of engineers and scientists.

Gunther Van Kerckhove Lead Manager, Product Safety & Regulatory affairs gunther.van.kerckhove@ocsial.com ocsial.com

“Graphene nanotubes can improve over half of the materials we use every day, from safer batteries to longer-lasting tires and ultraligh-

QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

MEMBER INTERVIEW

Sustainability is a core value of BNN. What strategies have you implemented to improve your organization’s sustainability? Sustainability is a broad and often multifaceted concept, and people tend to interpret it differently. At AC2T research GmbH, we approach sustainability from both a technological and an organizational perspective. As the Austrian competence center for tribology, our core mission is naturally aligned with sustainability: tribology focuses on optimizing systems, reducing friction and wear, and developing more efficient and durable products.

Franz Pirker

Franz Pirker, Business Development Manager AC2T Why did you decide to become a BioNanoNet member and what do you expect from the membership? For us, joining BNN isn’t just about becoming part of an organization – it’s about becoming part of the people and the strong network behind it. The BNN community gives us the opportunity to connect with experts from a wide range of disciplines, exchange knowledge, and stay close to the latest developments in bioand nanotechnology. By becoming a BioNanoNet member, we want to strengthen collaborations, explore new

project opportunities, and actively contribute to a community that drives innovation. We expect the membership to support us in building meaningful partnerships, increasing visibility for our work, and engaging in initiatives where our expertise can create real value. Ultimately, we joined because we believe that real progress happens when the right people come together – and BNN provides exactly that kind of environment. And of course, a big thanks to Andreas Falk for motivating me to join.

In practice, this translates into extending the lifetime of components, reducing material consumption, minimizing energy losses, and ultimately contributing to a significant reduction in environmental impact. These outcomes are not side effects of our work - they are central to it. However, sustainability cannot be achieved through technology alone. True long-term impact also requires a sustainable business approach. We therefore work continuously on strengthening internal processes, improving resource efficiency, and investing in stable, long-lasting partnerships. Ensuring robust organizational structures, responsible financial management, and a resilient business model is essential—because sustainability in innovation can only thrive when the organization behind it is sustainable as well.

What led you to your profession? Not easy to answer, but I would say I was inspired by my family.

What does your typical workday look like? I don’t really have a “typical” workday—and that’s exactly what I enjoy about my job. Every day brings new challenges, conversations, and opportunities.

What is the best aspect of your job? Closing the innovation gap: As Head of Innovation, I see it as my mission to transform our research outcomes into meaningful, sustainable business solutions. Turning scientific insights into real-world impact is both a challenge and a source of motivation that drives me every single day.

What would you advise a young person to consider working in your field? Be brave and dare to think and walk new paths.

Who are the people in your field that inspires you? When it comes to developing new business models, I’m particularly inspired by people who take the leap into spin-offs or start-ups. Their fresh ideas, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit are a powerful source of motivation.

By combining these technological and organizational strategies, we contribute to environmental goals while ensuring that our work, collaborations, and innovations remain viable and impactful for the future.

QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

MEMBER INTERVIEW

5-second answers What was your dream job when you were a kid? Honestly, my childhood was so long ago that I’m not sure I ever had a specific dream job. But, when I was around 18, I dreamed of owning my own vineyard and producing my own wine—a dream I was able to fulfill in 2012.

If you could study anything (new) right now, what would it be? Having enjoyed a very scientific and commercial education in this life, I would like to study something related to art.

Office, home office or hybrid? I love interacting with people, that's why I prefer to work in an office. However, home office is an additional way of working and should be used in a smart way to take advantage of its benefits for the whole team.

If you could make any activity an Olympic discipline, in which would you win a medal? Golf – for sure - I am near to being a professional.

What is your motto? For over 15 years, my motto has been not to get annoyed by anything or anyone. Think positive!

Which book have you most enjoyed reading lately?

Why did you decide to become a BioNanoNet member and what do you expect from the membership? We joined to connect Carinthia’s research and innovation ecosystem with Europe’s leading advanced-materials and life-science networks. Through BNN we expect high-quality collaboration opportunities, access to expertise on regulation and scaling, and co-creation on EU projects that align with our Research, Technology & Innovation (RTI) priorities in digitalization, sustainability, and education. Furthermore, we expect to present, position and connect our leading companies.

Sustainability is a core value of BNN. What strategies have you implemented to improve your organization’s sustainability?

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck from Mark Manson – a good handbook on how to stay relaxed.

Contact Franz Pirker AC2T research GmbH office@ac2t.at ac2t.at

Interview with Oliver Kathol (BABEG) – BNN leads the AdMa ecosystem, Carinthia is ready to engage

Our sustainability approach is program-driven: we initiate and coordinate funded RTI projects that deliver real-world impact (e.g., sustainable mobility pilots, circular construction, and digital transformation of industry). We promote sustainable technologies through our projects, support circular and green tech initiatives, and actively integrate environmental impact assessments into our project evaluations. Furthermore, we are also certified ClimatePartner.

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What led you to your profession? I’m driven by the idea of turning excellent research into regional value creation. Building bridges between academia, industry, and the public sector and seeing that collaboration translate into jobs, new technologies, and resilient value chains brought me into RTI management.

What does your typical workday look like? My day usually combines strategic work, coordination with researchers, companies and public stakeholders, and managing ongoing innovation projects. I spend a lot of time building partnerships, identifying new opportunities for Carinthia’s innovation ecosystem, and working with my team to move our initiatives forward.

What’s the best aspect of your job? Being able to create connections that make a real difference — helping new research collaborations emerge, supporting companies in their innovation journeys, and shaping the future of Carinthia as a strong and visible innovation region.

What would you advise a young person considering working in your field? Stay curious, stay interdisciplinary, and learn how to communicate complex topics clearly. Innovation work requires both openness and structure — and above all, the ability to bring different people and perspectives together.

Who are people in your field that inspire you? I’m inspired by entrepreneurs who build strong innovation cultures in mid-sized technology companies — people who prove that applied research and regional ecosystems can create real global value.

MEMBER INTERVIEW

Which book have you most enjoyed reading lately? The Universe in Your Hand: A Journey Through Space, Time and Beyond.

If you could make any activity an Olympic discipline, in which would you win a medal? Packing too many appointments into one day.

What is your motto? Create impact by connecting ideas, people and opportunities.

5-second answers What was your dream job when you were a kid?

If you could study anything (new) right now, what would it be?

Office, home office or hybrid? Office

Why did you decide to become a BioNanoNet member and what do you expect from the membership? We decided to become members of BioNanoNet because we recognise the significant networking opportunities within the organisation for generating and realising new ideas. We expect valuable impulses to foster our own growth and contribute to the further development of the BioNanoNet community through regular exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Sustainability is a core value of BNN. What strategies have you implemented to improve your organization’s sustainability?

I wanted to become a pilot — which is why I eventually studied Aviation Engineering.

Probably Artificial Intelligence Engineering, because it will play a role in nearly every field in the future.

Interview with Gerald Resch (Resch GmbH) – anything is possible

Contact Oliver Kathol, MSc BABEG | Kärntner Betriebsansiedlungs- und Beteiligungsgesellschaft m.b.H. kathol@babeg.at babeg.at

For many years, sustainability has been a core principle of our company. From an ecological perspective, we prioritise the use of the latest technologies. Our building was constructed to the highest modern standards and incorporates geothermal heating, air-source heat pumps and waste heat recovery systems. From a social and economic standpoint, we collaborate closely with universities to identify emerging trends early on. This allows us to provide our employees with the necessary training to ensure that our company remains sustainable and future-ready in every respect.

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What led you to your profession? Coincidentally, I received an apprenticeship as a mechanic at a research company.

What does your typical workday look like? A typical working day for me starts at 6:00 a.m., with me arriving at the company at around 7:30 a.m. I then begin with a tour of the facility and engage in discussions with various production teams. From 9:00 a.m., I attend a series of internal and external meetings. The working day usually ends between 6:00 and 7:00 pm.

What’s the best aspect of your job? If I were advising a young person considering this field, I would tell them to maintain a strong curiosity about new technologies and innovations.

Who are people in your field that inspire you? Nikola Tesla

MEMBER INTERVIEW

Interview with Cris Rocca (University of Birmingham) – there are always millions of solutions

5-second answers What was your dream job when you were a kid?

Why did you decide to become a BioNanoNet member and what do you expect from the membership?

Accountant or chef.

If you could study anything (new) right now, what would it be? That's a difficult question because I value my current profession very highly. However, if I could study something new, I would probably choose another field related to mechanical engineering.

Office, home office or hybrid? Contact

Hybrid.

Which book have you most enjoyed reading lately? Trillion Dollar Coach.

If you could make any activity an Olympic discipline, in which would you win a medal? Flexible solutions to problems.

What is your motto? Geht nicht (Nothing is impossible.)

gibs

nicht

Gerald Resch GmbH Gerald.resch@resch-gmbh.at resch-gmbh.at

I joined BioNanoNet to connect with a vibrant network of experts working at the interface of nanotechnology, sustainability, and advanced materials. Membership offers opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and participation in initiatives that align with my research focus on Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) and environmental impact assessment.

Sustainability is a core value of BNN. What strategies have you implemented to improve your organization’s sustainability? Our approach integrates sustainability into every stage of research and development. We prioritize life-cycle assessment, resource efficiency, and circular economy principles in projects. Additionally, we actively promote SSbD methodologies to ensure that innovations in materials science are environmentally responsible and socially beneficial.

What led you to your profession? A deep curiosity about how natural systems function and a desire to solve environmental challenges drove me toward Earth and Environmental Sciences. The intersection of science, sustainability, and innovation felt like the perfect space to make a tangible impact. QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

What does your typical workday look like? My day usually involves a mix of data analysis, project coordination, and stakeholder engagement. I spend time reviewing research outputs, drafting reports, and collaborating with partners across academia and industry to advance sustainable solutions.

What is the best aspect of your job? The ability to contribute to solutions that matter, helping shape technologies and policies that protect the environment while enabling innovation. Seeing research translate into real-world impact is incredibly rewarding.

What would you advise a young person considering working in your field? Stay curious and embrace interdisciplinarity. Environmental challenges require knowledge that spans chemistry, materials science, and policy. Build strong analytical skills and never underestimate the power of collaboration.

Who are the people in your field that inspire you? I’m inspired by researchers and innovators who champion sustainability in technology, those who push boundaries while keeping environmental responsibility at the core, such as pioneers in green chemistry and circular eco-

MEMBER INTERVIEW

5-second answers What was your dream job when you were a kid? Civil Engineer - a different field from where I am today but still driven by the same purpose: creating solutions that make life better for future generations.

If you could study anything (new) right now, what would it be? Psychology, understanding human behaviour and decision-making fascinates me, and it’s increasingly relevant for driving sustainable change.

Office, home office or hybrid? Hybrid—it offers flexibility and fosters productivity.

Which book have you most enjoyed reading lately? Atomic Habits by James Clear. A brilliant guide to understanding how small, consistent changes can lead to remarkable results. It’s practical, science-based, and inspiring for both personal and professional growth.

If you could make any activity an Olympic discipline, in which would you win a medal? Project and business management: coordinating complex initiatives and keeping everything on track is my competitive edge.

What is your motto? “It’s the same—there are always millions of solutions. We will find the best for us.”

Contact Cristian (Cris) Rocca University of Birmingham (UoB) c.rocca@bham.ac.uk Research group lead’s - Eva Valsami-Jones'

Interview with Danail Hristozov (Greendecision Srl.) – education, research and innovation will save the world Why did you decide to become a BioNanoNet member and what do you expect from the membership? BioNanoNet provides us with unique opportunity to become part of a network participated by industries, where we can make new contacts and potentially establish mutually beneficial collaborations with other members and discover opportunities for joint projects.

Sustainability is a core value of BNN. What strategies have you implemented to improve your organization’s sustainability? Greendecision’s core business is offering high quality scientific support and consulting services in the fields of sustainability, risk, and resilience. The main expertise of the company concerns the development and implementation of innovative tools and best practices for supporting complex decision making in all three main sustainability focus areas: Environment, Society, and Economy (Industry and Business). Sustainability and responsible innovation are what Greendecision stands for. We develop knowledge not for its own sake, but for practical applications.

What led you to your profession? In my 20-ties I was searching for a PhD position on the same topic of my master thesis ‘Risk assessment of engineered nanomaterials’. The only place I found such a position was QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

Ca’ Foscari University of Venice where I later gained my PhD degree and was introduced to European research projects for the first time. When I graduated, I almost immediately acquired my first research grant - the large SUN project with consortium of 35 partners from around Europe and the world. So, from a PhD student I turned into a coordinator of a big EU project. This paved my way to stay in research and shortly after I and my colleagues from Venice founded the Greendecision company.

What does your typical workday look like? I think I don’t have typical days - almost every day is different with different dynamics and activities. My time, both in the office and at home is dominated by meetings and discussions on scientific topics and company management issues.

What is the best aspect of your job? The best aspect of my job is flexibility - I am flexible to use my time as I wish, which continuously brings me strong sense of freedom.

What would you advise a young person considering working in your field? There are many things to advice young people when it comes to research and to developing skills, but my best advice is to stay open-minded, always search for better opportunities and not let artificially imposed constraints or the opinion of others to stop them from progressing in their career. 41

M E M B E R U P D AT E S

WOOD K PLUS - KOMPETENZZENTRUM HOLZ GMBH

MEMBER INTERVIEW

Office, home office or hybrid? Who are the people in your field that inspire you? I am generally inspired by leaders who are disruptive and able to transform the status quo for creating large impact for many people. In my field the advancements, while significant, tend to be incremental so it is hard to find strongly inspirational figures, but at the same time I strongly appreciate all the achievements of my colleagues and friends in the field.

I prefer the hybrid option as it allows me to have face to face contact with my colleagues when in the office while not wasting too much time computing to the office when busy with desk work such as writing a research paper or a project proposal.

Which book have you most enjoyed reading lately? Anna Karenina by Lev Tolstoy – one of the best novels ever.

If you could make any activity an Olympic discipline, in which would you win a medal?

5-second answers What was your dream job when you were a kid? I don’t clearly remember - when I was a kid, I used to read many books as opposed to my peers who preferred to play outside. This challenged my imagination in many different directions, so no single dream job but many dreams for sure.

If you could study anything (new) right now, what would it be? Law, so that I can help to reduce injustice, especially in my country of origin Bulgaria, which has big issues with the rule of law right now, which are inconsistent with its position as an equal member state of the European Union.

Raising funds for education, research and innovation to make the world a safer, healthier and overall, a better place to live for many people. This includes not only the safety and sustainability of chemicals, materials or consumer products, which is currently my main area of work but also other areas such as defence and climate change for example. I want many gold medals for this activity because education, research and innovation will save the world. Saving the world is my long-term mission…and while doing this, I also need the money of course.

What is your motto? ‘The best or nothing’

ATRIUM - Alternatives for an effective Transition to sustainable, Reusable and recyclable construction products by the Innovative production of User and eco-friendly bio-based Materials

ithin the ATRIUM project, six bio-based materials are being identified and upscaled with the ambition to drive innovation in the construction sector. This sector remains one of the world’s largest consumers of raw materials, accounting for nearly 50% of total resource use. The overarching goal is to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of buildings through the cascade utilisation of biomass and the replacement of fossil-based polymers. As project partner and leader of Work Package 1, Wood K plus/Kompetenzzentrum Holz GmbH contributes to this transition by developing three innovative bio-based products: WPC terrace decking, bio-composite flooring tiles, and natural fibre composites for green infrastructure. Read the whole article here. Extruded profiles of 4th series of tests (©Wood K plus)

Contact Danail Hristozov Greendecision Srl. danail.hristozov@greendecision.eu greendecision.eu QUARTERLY ISSUE 04/2025

M E M B E R U P D AT E S

UNIVERSITY OF GHENT

Exploring the impact of volumetric additive manufacturing of photo-crosslinkable gelatin on mesenchymal stromal cell behavior and differentiation

Detailed view on profile section (©Wood K plus)

Flooring tiles based on hemp bonded with carbohydratebased adhesive (©Wood K plus)

Contact Jürgen Leßlhumer, Ivana Burzic & Pia Solt-Rindler Kompetenzzentrum Holz GmbH

Plant pots made of PHA-based NFCs (©Tecnopackaging & Aitiip)

Volumetric additive manufacturing (VAM) is an emerging 3D-printing technology that creates an object in one single step, rather than building it layer by layer. A rotating vial filled with liquid resin is illuminated from multiple angles, and wherever enough light overlaps, the resin solidifies. This approach is extremely fast, gentle and well suited for printing soft, bioactive materials. In our recent publication in Additive Manufacturing, our team – Nele Pien, Bryan Bogaert, Marguerite Meeremans, Cezar-Stefan Popovici, Peter Dubruel, Catharina De Schauwer and Sandra Van Vlierberghe – explored how VAM can be combined with cell-friendly gelatinbased hydrogels to guide the behavior and fate of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs).

j.lesslhumer@wood-kplus.at i.burzic@wood-kplus.at p.solt-rindler@wood-kplus.at wood-kplus.at/en/

We developed photo-crosslinkable gelatin bioresins based on thiolated gelatin (Gel-SH) and gelatin-norbornene (Gel-NB). By tuning the degree of substitution (DS) and concentration of these components, we were able to adjust stiffness, swelling and degradation of the resulting hydrogels over a wide ran-

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ge, while keeping them highly biocompatible. Using VAM printing, we could rapidly fabricate complex cm³-scale constructs with features down to a few hundred micrometers. Next, we compared two ways of making MSCladen scaffolds from the same material system: conventional film-casting versus VAM printing. In both approaches, equine adipose-derived MSCs were mixed homogeneously into the bioresin before crosslinking. This allowed us to directly assess how the fabrication route - and the mechanical properties it gave rise to - influenced cell behavior. Cell viability and metabolic activity remained high for at least 21 days in both film-cast and VAM-printed hydrogels, demonstrating that the printing conditions and light exposure are fully compatible with living cells. Read the whole article here.

M E M B E R U P D AT E S

GRAZ UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

Reference

Printed scaffold and cell distribution – Left: computer design and volumetrically printed porous gelatin scaffold. Right: fluorescence images showing a dense 3D network of living mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) distributed throughout the scaffold (calcein-AM/propidium iodide staining, scale bars 400 µm). Data from Pien et al., Additive Manufacturing 109 (2025) 104850.

Nele Pien, Bryan Bogaert, Marguerite Meeremans, Cezar-Stefan Popovici, Peter Dubruel, Catharina De Schauwer, Sandra Van Vlierberghe. Exploring the impact of volumetric additive manufacturing of photo-crosslinkable gelatin on mesenchymal stromal cell behavior and differentiation. Additive Manufacturing, Volume 109, 2025, 104850, ISSN 2214-8604, DOI: 10.1016/j.addma.2025.104850.

Contact Dr Nele Pien Nele.Pien@ugent.be Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group & Veterinary Stem Cell Research Unit Prof. Sandra Van Vlierbergh Sandra.VanVlierberghe@ugent.be Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group Prof. Catharina De Schauwer Catharina.DeSchauwer@ugent.be Veterinary Stem Cell Research Unit

TU Graz opens up new avenues in lung cancer research with digital cell twin An enhanced computer model is now helping to provide fresh insights into cancer-cell growth and how it can be stopped. The digital cell model represents another step towards individualized cancer treatment. A team led by Christian Baumgartner of the Institute of Health Care Engineering at Graz University of Technology has developed a highly detailed digital twin of the A549 lung cancer cell line. The twin builds on bioelectric processes and calcium dynamics in the cell interior in innovative new ways. Calcium is a vital component in the survival of biological cells. However, if the concentration of calcium within a cell is too high, this can cause cell death – which is what makes the element such an interesting factor in cancer treatment. Created under the “DigLungCancer” project, the cell model builds on an earlier model from 2021 – re-

garded as the world’s first digital ion current model of a human A549 lung adenocarcinoma cell line. The improved model will pave the way for research into the ways in which calcium currents and electrical voltages on the cell membrane influence cancer-cell growth. Read the whole article here.

Contact Christian Baumgartner Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr.techn. TU Graz | Institute of Health Care Engineering christian.baumgartner@tugraz.at

Guiding stem cell differentiation – Quantitative readouts of early and late osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation in film cast versus VAMprinted hydrogels, demonstrating enhanced bone formation in the stiffer VAM constructs and stronger cartilage/fat differentiation in softer film cast hydrogels. Data from Pien et al., Additive Manufacturing 109 (2025) 104850. Scanning electron microscope image of a lung cancer cell. Image source: Anne Weston, Francis Crick Institute (Licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) 46

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M E M B E R U P D AT E S

UNIVERSITY OF GHENT

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY-ASSESSMENT / AUSTRIAN ACADEMY OF SCIENCES

Flemish Government and Doctoral Schools (Ghent University)

16th NanoTrust Conference – Safe-andSustainable-by-Design in Practice: Nanomaterials, Advanced Materials, and Beyond

Strengthening our biomaterials & tissue-engineering community: recap of International Workshop On 4–5 September 2025, the Doctoral Schools Workshop “Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering” brought together an inspiring mix of international experts, early-career researchers, and PhD students for two days of scientific exchange and community-building. The event created a dynamic forum to explore current advances in biomaterials and tissue engineering, while also highlighting the pathways that link innovative academic research to real-world applications. The programme featured a distinguished line-up of invited speakers whose expertise spans biofabrication, polymer science, regenerative medicine, scaffold design, and translational bioengineering. We were honored to welcome Michiya Matsusaki (Osaka University), Benjamin Nottelet (Université

de Montpellier), Michael Monaghan (Trinity College Dublin), Anja Lena Thiebes (RWTH Aachen University), Cécile Échalier (Université de Montpellier) and Aleksandr Ovsianikov (TU Wien). Their lectures provided deep insights into emerging techniques, material innovations, and the challenges and opportunities involved in moving technology from the laboratory to clinical or industrial settings.

The 16th NanoTrust Conference took place at the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna on 17 October 2025, on the topic “Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design in Practice: Nanomaterials, Advanced Materials, and Beyond”. Participants had the opportunity to explore the Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) framework from an interdisciplinary and technology assessment perspective. The event brought together international experts to examine the framework’s evolution, application, and path toward industrywide adoption across three focused sessions.

After a welcome from Michael Nentwich, Director of the Institute of Technology Assessment, the NanoTrust team set the stage by presenting the project and discussing its integration within the Institute’s activities (Gudrun Lettner). This was followed by an analysis of the synergies between Technology Assessment methods and the SSbD framework in supporting the integration of societal goals into the innovation process (Jean Schmitt). Read the whole article here.

Contact Gudrun Lettner, Jean Schmitt Institute of Technology-Assessment / Austrian Academy of Sciences nanotrust.ita@oeaw.ac.at nanotrust.ac.at

Read the whole article here.

Contact Sandra Van Vlierberghe Ghent University Sandra.VanVlierberghe@UGent.be Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials group The podium discussion generated insights toward a broader adoption of SSbD. © Gudrun Lettner

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M E M B E R U P D AT E S

OCSIAL

E M PA - S W I S S F E D E R A L L A B O R AT O R I E S

Graphene Nanotube ESD Chemical Gloves: A Game-Changer for Safety and Comfort in Personal Protective Equipment

1st International Symposium and 2nd National Symposium on Research and Innovation in Nanoscience

Graphene nanotubes give gloves reliable protection from static discharge while maintaining mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and color diversity. These abrasionresistant safety gloves are highly resilient: they resist wear and tear without sacrificing performance. Built to EN 16350 standards, these gloves redefine ESD (electrostatic discharge) protection: engineered for demanding sectors like oil refineries, paint production, and semiconductor manufacturing.

Nastah Industries, Malaysia’s leading manufacturer of industrial and household rubber gloves, has unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in personal protective equipment (PPE): ESD chemical gloves enhanced with TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes. Designed to prevent static discharge while resisting chemical and physical hazards, these gloves set a new standard for safety and reliability across industries from chemical processing to electronics manufacturing.

From 20-22 October 2025 the Second National Symposium on Research and Innovation in Nanoscience—and the first to include international participation—brought together leading scientists to explore new frontiers and translational applications of nanotechnology in a truly global and multidisciplinary context. The symposium was organized in a hybrid mode with participants able to join online or on site: at the Center for Applied Physics and Advanced Technology (CFATA) in Queretaro, Mexico.

Read the whole article here.

Contact

Anastasiya Kreyker OCSiAl press@ocsial.com ocsial.com tuball.com

Luis Mauricio Ortiz-Galvez Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories luism.ortizgalvez@empa.ch empa.ch

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RESEARCH CENTER PHARMACEUTICAL ENGINEERING GMBH

Assessing the Feasibility of AI-Based Forecasting to Prevent Medicine Shortages — Outcomes of the REMEDY Project Pharmaceutical supply shortages represent a significant global challenge. According to the current statistics, around 460 drug products are either not available or only available in limited quantities in Austria. The FFGfunded REMEDY (REsilient MEDication supply through multimodal Data sYnthesis) project (01.09.2024 to 30.11.2025) addressed these challenges and investigated whether the legal and technical requirements in Austria allow the development of an AI-supported forecasting system to mitigate drug shortages. The project was led by Fraunhofer Austria in collaboration with the Research Center Pharmaceutical Engineering (RCPE), the Faculty of Computer Science, Economics and Law at the University of Oldenburg, and the Institute for Civil and Civil Procedure Law at Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Wien), combining technical and legal expertise to map the feasibility space. In particular,

Project Presentations & Updates

REMEDY focused on three interlinked questions: i) which data are required to predict demand and supply disruptions; ii) whether those data can be collected under Austrian and EU legal frameworks; and iii) whether heterogeneous data sources can be prepared and harmonized for AI and large-scale predictive methods.. Read the whole article here.

Contact Carolin Tetyczka Research Center Pharmaceutical Engineering GmbH carolin.tetyczka@rcpe.at rcpe.at Sebastian Kreuter Fraunhofer Austria Research GmbH Engineering GmbH Sebastian.kreuter@fraunhofer.at fraunhofer.at

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P R O J E C T U P D AT E S

European R&I Days 16-17.09.2025, Brussel, Belgium (BNN)

Recap of ATIMA activities (September – November 2025)

ithin the last months (September – November 2025), ATIMA and its partners have continued their activities for raising awareness on the project and its goals, engaging with different stakeholder groups, and strengthening the identity of Austria’s advanced/ innovative materials (AdMa) community. A detailed report on the ATIMA activities can be found on the project website. Highlights of activities in the last three months include:

AM-Expo Luzern

Company Visit at EDELRID 12.09.2025, Isny, Germany (V-trion) The Smart Textiles Platform Austria visited EDELRID in Isny, Allgäu, a pioneer in climbing ropes, safety equipment, and textile innovation. Participants gained exclusive insights into operations and innovation processes. ATIMA played a key role in facilitating the visit, fostering collaboration, inspiring new ideas, and strengthening the smart textiles network. More details about the event here.

10.09.2025, Luzern, Switzerland (AM-Austria) Together with four AM-Austria members, the Austrian additive manufacturing community showcased its expertise at AM-Expo 2025 in Luzern. The delegation engaged in networking, knowledge exchange, and lobbying to foster partnerships. ATIMA played a central role in enhancing visibility, promoting collaboration, and highlighting Austria’s growing impact in additive manufacturing. More details about the event here.

Andreas Falk attended the European Commission’s Research & Innovation Days 2025 in Brussels to stay informed on European activities and future plans. With 3,000 participants, the event fostered valuable contacts, strengthening ATIMA’s interaction with key EU initiatives and enhancing Austria’s role in the advanced materials ecosystem. More details about the event here.

Global AM Hubs Sumit 16-18.09.2025, Barcelona, Spain (AM-Austria) Austria showcased its leadership in additive manufacturing at the Global AM Hubs Summit 2025 in Barcelona through AM-Austria’s unified community. Representing Austria, Dr. Johannes Gartner highlighted key initiatives strengthening international collaboration. ATIMA supported these efforts through community building, dissemination, and lobbying, enhancing Austria’s global recognition in additive manufacturing. More details about the event here.

45. Plenumsmeeting der Leichtbau-Plattform A2LT 25.09.2025, Vienna, Austria (BIZ-UP ) The 45th A2LT Plenary Meeting at TU Wien gathered experts from research, industry, and policy to discuss trends in lightweight manufacturing and advanced materials. A highlight was the “Regional Reality” workshop under the Lightweight EU project, which connected the Austrian ATIMA community internationally and strengthened Europe’s lightweighting ecosystem. More details about the event here.

Mat-Days 2025 AM-Expo Luzern

17-18.09.2025, St.Pölten, Austria (BIZ-UP) At MAT-DAYS 2025 in St. Pölten, A2LT presented its lightweighting activities through a booth and presentation, highlighting its role in promoting advanced technologies and international engagement via ELCA and ELN. ATIMA contributed by showcasing innovation and sustainability efforts, strengthening Mat-Days 2025

Company Visit at EDELRID

cooperation and awareness within Austria’s advanced materials and plastics community. More details about the event here.

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P R O J E C T U P D AT E S

SSbD session, and networking pitches. ATIMA contributed by promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation within Austria’s advanced materials community. The SSbD session focused on AdMa with representation of ATIMA via BNN. Read all details in the article in this magazine about the Annual Forum. More details about the event here.

European Researchers’ Night 2025 26.09.2025, Graz, Austria (BNN)

IMAGINE 2025 30.09.2025, Vienna, Austria (BNN, BIZ-UP, AMAustria, ASMET, nanonet-Austria, V-trion) IMAGINE25, Austria’s leading innovation forum, brought together experts to explore how advanced materials can foster industrial and technological leadership. The 'Advanced Materials' workshop, led by Clemens Wolf from BNN, produced several key outcomes. These included a call for stronger interdisciplinary collaboration and public engagement on material safety and sustainability, as well as the use of AI to support material development and safe-and-sustainable-by-design approaches. The workshop also addressed regulatory and circular economy challenges. Clemens was also invited to present the workshop’s findings during the subsequent panel discussion. These outcomes will feed directly into ATIMA’s advanced materials road-

K-Messe map, supporting the development of a connected, innovative and sustainable materials ecosystem. More details about the event here.

General Meeting AM-Austria 02.10.2025, Seibersdorf, Austria (AM-Austria, BIZ-UP) The Austrian Additive Manufacturing platform held its general meeting on 2 October, discussing finances, market trends, and new projects to ensure transparency and member exchange. New members presented their expertise, while ATIMA supported the meeting by fostering collaboration and engagement, strengthening Austria’s additive manufacturing community and industry connections. More details about the event here.

BioNanoNet Annual Forum 2025 07.10.2025, Linz, Austria (BNN) The BioNanoNet Annual Forum 2025 in Linz brought together experts to explore advanced technologies and sustainable practices in life sciences. Organised by BNN and hosted by JKU, CHASE, RECENDT, and Wood K plus, it featured keynotes, Life Science session,

08-15.10.2025, Düsseldorf, Germany (BIZ-UP) At the K 2025 – the World’s No. 1 Trade Fair for Plastics & Rubber, ATIMA was showcased at the Plastics Cluster booth alongside A2LT and other initiatives. The presentation highlighted ATIMA’s goals and progress, promoting lightweighting and circularity, while facilitating exchange with stakeholders and enhancing the project’s visibility within industry. More details about the event here.

BioNanoNet Annual Forum 2025

ELCA's General Assembly 2025 09.10.2025, Düsseldorf, Germany (BIZ-UP) On 9 October 2025, ELCA members met in Düsseldorf during K 2025 for their annual General Assembly to review past achievements and plan 2026 strategies. ATIMA contributed by supporting collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, reinforcing Austria’s engagement in advancing lightweight technologies and strengthening partnerships across the European lightweighting sector. More details about the event here.

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General Meeting AM-Austria

On 26 September 2025, BNN hosted a hands-on station at European Researchers’ Night in Graz, engaging children and adults with Safe-and-Sustainableby-Design (SSbD) concepts using interactive materials. Under the umbrella of ATIMA, the activity highlighted advanced materials, life-cycle safety, and sustainability, reaching around 60 participants and raising awareness of AdMa challenges and opportunities. More details about the event here.

25. nanoNET-Austria Meeting 22.10.2025, Lustenau, Austria (nanoNET-AT) The 25th nanoNET-Austria Meeting, part of Millennium Innovation Days, was supported by ATIMA and the Smart Textiles Platform, reaching the wider Austrian nano community. Presentations covered key technologies, quantum applications, and high-tech material innovations. ATIMA’s involvement helped showcase cutting-edge research and strengthen networking within Austria’s nanotechnology ecosystem. More details about the event here.

Millennium Innovation Days 2025 22-23.10.2025, Lustenau, Austria (V-trion) The Millennium Innovation Days 2025, embedded within ATIMA, brought together experts, companies, and research institutions to explore Smart Textiles, Nanotechnology, MedTech, and sustainable innovation. Featuring the 25th NanoNet Meeting and interactive workshops, ATIMA facilitated interdisciplinary networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration, strengthening Austria’s position in research-driven, future-oriented material and technology development. More details about the event here.

Zukunft.Ressourcen 2025

22-23.10.2025, Copenhagen, Denmark (BNN)

04.11.2025, Mauthausen, Austria (BIZ-UP)

At RTI Summit on Research and Technology Infrastructures Ecosystem for Breakthrough Science and Innovation 2025, Andreas Falk represented ATIMA and InnoMatSyn, chairing sessions on “Materials Circularity and Critical Raw Materials.” The summit identified priorities, opportunities, and impact measures for RTIs, providing insights to shape future funding programs and contributing directly to the ongoing development of the ATIMA roadmap. More details about the event here.

The Zukunft.Ressourcen 2025 event in Mauthausen highlighted innovative material development for a resilient, sustainable industry, focusing on raw material scarcity, AIsupported sorting and new recycling technologies. Key projects included KIRAMET and closed plastic cycles. ATIMA was represented with a roll-up banner and is an active partner in this transformation process. More details about the event here.

Leichtbau-Reise Baden Württemberg Next Gen Manufacturing Congress 23-24.10.2025, Munich, Germany (AM-Austria)

04-07.11.2025, Baden Württemberg, Germany (BIZ-UP)

AM-Austria participated in the Next Gen Manufacturing Congress in Munich, uniting European experts to discuss advanced manufacturing and innovation. The event offered networking, knowledge exchange, and insights into accelerating innovation. ATIMA’s involvement supported visibility, collaboration, and engagement within the additive manufacturing community, strengthening Austria’s presence in the European AM ecosystem. More details about the event here.

The A2LT Lightweighting Mission to BadenWürttemberg offered an in-depth view of material and technology developments, showcased Austrian expertise at Technologietag Leichtbau, and included visits to leading institutions in the sector. It highlighted lightweighting as a holistic systems approach. ATIMA co-designed and organised the mission, ensuring a well-structured programme and valuable connections. More details about the event here.

promoting innovation, and inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in research, technology, and Austria’s advanced materials ecosystem. More details about the event here.

FORMNEXT 18-21.11.2025, Frankfurt Germany (AM-Austria) Europe’s 3D printing potential is strong, but better cross-border cooperation is needed. At FORMNEXT, Dr Johannes Gartner and fellow experts highlighted that the technology is mature and business interest is growing, yet ambitious progress requires collaboration. At the Außenwirtschaft Austria stand, we showcased additive manufacturing services, strengthening ATIMA’s visibility and collaboration opportunities. More details about the event here.

I-Messe 2025 06-08.11.2025, Dornbirn, Austria (V-trion) Next Gen Manufacturing Congress

Millennium Innovation Days 2025

RTI Summit

The Smart Textiles Platform Austria participated in I-Messe Dornbirn, showcasing innovations in smart and technical textiles. Representing ATIMA, the platform highlighted advanced materials and cross-sector collaboration, engaging students and educators,

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I-Messe 2025

33rd Leoben-Conference on Polymer Engineering and Science

33rd Leoben-Conference on Polymer Engineering and Science 20.11.2025, Leoben, Austria (BIZ-UP) The 33rd Conference on Polymer Engineering and Science in Leoben showcased rapid progress in composite materials, focusing on circularity, bio-based resins, recycling strategies, and digitally supported manufacturing. Topics included carbon-fibre recycling, closed-loop concepts, renewable-resource resins, and AI-driven process optimisation. ATIMA was represented with an information desk at the Kunststoff-Cluster booth, strengthening its connections within the composites’ community. More details about the event here.

46. Plenumsmeeting Plattform A2LT

der

Contact Clemens Wolf BioNanoNet Forschungsgesellschaft mbH info@atima.at atima.at

27.11.2025, Traboch, Austria (BIZ-UP)

ithin the EU-funded NABIHEAL project, researchers are addressing critical unmet needs in wound-healing management by developing multifunctional biomaterials that go beyond the limitations of current commercial solutions. In this interview, Selestina Gorgieva, one of the project coordinators, explains why existing wound dressings often fail to meet the complex demands of chronic and diabetic wounds, and how NABIHEAL is responding to these challenges. By combining different biomaterials into a single system, the project aims to deliver innovative wound dressings with multiple functions, including antimicrobial activity without the use of silver, while actively supporting the wound-healing process.

Leichtbau-

The 46th A2LT Plenary Meeting in Traboch gathered 32 experts from research, academia, and industry for insights, company tours, and networking. Participants explored advances in lightweight materials, automated characterization, composites, AI-driven surface testing, new PA6 innovations, and vehicle design, with a tour showcasing cutting-edge testing and manufacturing technologies. More details about the event here.

Interview with Selestina Gorgieva (University of Maribor) – coordinating NABIHEAL project, in which BNN implements SSbD

46. Plenumsmeeting der Leichtbau-Plattform A2LT

A key focus of the project is bacterial nanocellulose, a unique biomaterial that is biocompatible, non-toxic, highly hydrophilic, and transparent. These properties make it especially suitable for modern wound care, allowing for moist wound management, reduced pain through fewer dressing changes, and easier clinical inspection. As part of NABIHEAL, BNN is responsible for

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communication and dissemination activities and for supporting the implementation of the Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design (SSbD) approach, ensuring that innovation goes hand in hand with safety and sustainability. The protocols developed during the project will be shared with the scientific community, paving the way for future advanced medical products. Watch the full interview to learn more about the science behind NABIHEAL and how this project aims to improve the quality of life for patients through smarter, safer wound-healing solutions.

Contact Johanna K. Scheper johanna.scheper@bnn.at nabiheal.eu

P R O J E C T U P D AT E S

Explore PLANETS’ Latest Training Materials PLANETS aims to demonstrate the applicability of the SSbD Framework while technically developing alternatives for three of the most important classes of molecules in chemical industries (plasticizers, flame retardants and surfactants) at TRL 6 and their incorporation into broadly available consumer goods at TRL7. The new molecules and products will be significantly safer for workers and consumers and will have considerably lower environmental impact, while ensuring economic viability and social awareness throughout the different value chains. Additionally, PLANETS is very active in organising internal trainings and adapting the materials for external users! These are the newcomers to the already long list of public materials: • Teaching materials of the Venice School 2025 • Introduction to Life Cycle Sustainabili- ty Assessment (LCA) Explore all materials here.

the

publicly

Consumer needs for baby products – Have your say!

Outlook BNN EVENTS & EVENTS SUPPORTED BY BNN

The EU funded project PLANETS applies the Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework, to develop and demonstrate safer and more sustainable alternatives to existing substances of concern in different applications. For the case study on plasticizers applications PLANETS is looking for your opinion! To better understand (parents’) expectations and preferences regarding baby products such as spoons and teethers, PLANETS has created this anonymous survey. Please take the survey and let us know you opinion and share it in your network!

InnoMatSyn Workshop 12 February 2026 | Bilbao, Spain On the 12th of February 2026, InnoMatSyn organizes its 1st InnoMatSyn Event. As a key stakeholder of the advanced materials (AdMa) community we are delighted to invite to join us there! The event will be organized around three different workshops, introducing preliminary results of the project as well as collecting feedback from the audience through dedicated interactive sessions as well as open dialogue. Register here before the 12th of January 2026!

Contact Beatriz Alfaro Serrano beatriz.alfaro@bnn.at project-planets.eu

available

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BTechPro! Conference 06 May 2026 | Sigulda, Latvia

ANTHOS'26

Lange Nacht der Forschung

09-11 March 2026 | Vienna, Austria

24 April 2026 | Graz, Austria

Following the successful ANTHOS’24, the second edition of this event driven by BNN, supported by the NSC Community and EUfunded projects, is taking place on 9-11 March 2026 in Vienna. The Agenda is already online. Register now to guarantee your place!

The Long Night of Research is Austria’s largest event dedicated to science, research, and innovation, aimed at all age groups. The event takes place every two years across Austria. In all nine federal states, you can discover—free of charge—what is often hidden: exciting, surprising, astonishing things! With over 2,000 program highlights such as guided tours, workshops, lectures, live presentations, and hands-on experiments to marvel at and explore, the Long Night of Research offers something for everyone: for science professionals and those who aspire to be, for adventurers and the curious, for outof-the-box thinkers, for tinkerers, for young and grown-up explorers, and for all who want to know things in detail.

We want to especially thank all the engaged and collaborative projects co-organising this impactful NSC event: AI-TranspWood, AlChemiSSts, BIOSAFIRE, CheMatSustain, InnoMatSyn, INTEGRANO, PINK, PLANETS, SSbD4CheM, SUNRISE, and TOXBOX!

The exact program is expected to be published in March 2026.

The International Conference for Young Scientists on Biorefinery Technologies and Products BTechPro! is a biannual conference with the aim of promoting the professional development of early career researchers and establishing contacts between research groups working on biomass processing challenges. Deadline for short abstract submission: 7 January 2026, see online.

SETAC 2026 – SETAC Europe 36th Annual Meeting 17-21 May 2026 | Maastricht, The Netherland Join us in Maastricht, the Netherlands, from 17–21 May 2026 for the 36th Annual Meeting of SETAC Europe — Europe’s premier event. Embrace the Outlier: In Science, Regulations and Networks. You can look forward to five days packed with onsite (poster and platform) presentation sessions, keynote lectures, satellite meetings, student mixers, and exhibitor and networking events. Registration for the event opens at the beginning of February 2026. Make sure to benefit from early bird fees and register by 12 March 2026. After this date, late registration fees will apply.

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Carinthia innovates“-Event shall be right side on top, to have the entries ordered in time 20 May 2026 | Klagenfurt, Austria Discover Carinthia’s innovation and research landscape in a single day: meet leading researchers, technology companies, and ecosystem partners, explore cutting-edge projects, and build new networks and collaborations that drive the region forward. Make sure to benefit from early bird fees and register by 12 March 2026. After this date, late registration fees will apply.

35th Annual Conference of the European Society of Biomaterials 07-11 September 2026 | Antwerp, Belgium Organised by the Belgian Society for Tissue Engineering with chairs Sandra Van Vlierberghe (Polymer Chemistry & Biomaterials Group of Ghent University), Veerle Bloemen (KU Leuven), Liesbet Geris (ULiège). • Call for Symposia: deadline 30.11.2025 • Submission abstract open: To be announced. • Submission abstract deadline: To be announced. • Registration open: January 2026, details see online

w e n a e m o c l e w e w , d a e h a A s w e lo o k ! h t w o r g d n a s s e r g o r p f o year

Finally W

e hope you enjoyed reading our BNN QUARTERLY! Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any suggestions or feedback! Our next BNN QUARTERLY will be published in March 2026 and will focus on the topic “Advanced Materials enabling innovation for society and the planet”. BioNanoNet members are welcome to send their contributions regarding this focus topic and articles about their scientific research by 6th of March 2026! Articles on other topics can be published any time on the BNN website.

Contact info@bnn.at

Connect with us!

reproduced in any form without permission from the author or publisher. To request permission, contact info@bnn.at.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Projects’ Acknowledgements Following projects have contributed to this QUARTERLY

These projects received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement n° 101204218 (InnoMatSyn), n° 101092269 (NABIHEAL), n° 101177608 (PARC), n° 101177608 (PLANETS), and n° 101138475 (SSbD4CheM). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The FFG is the central national funding organisation and strengthens Austria’s innovative power. This project is funded by the FFG, project n° FO999919580 (ATIMA).

This work was supported by the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) through a junior post-doctoral fellowship (12E4523N) and SB PhD fellowships (1SHE724N and 1S02822/24N). Additional support came from the Interreg “Healthy Teeth” project and an FWO Hercules infrastructure grant (I003922N).

The NanoTrust project is co-funded by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure, by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management, by the Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, and by the Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt (AUVA).

I N N O VAT I O N I S T H E K E Y . S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y L E A D S T H E WA Y .

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