This project is implemented in a consortium of three top research institutions under the leadership of the Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IMIC). The partners are the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague (UCT) and Charles University (CUNI).
Approximately one third of the research groups currently established within IMIC will participate in the proposed project (WP1, WP3 and WP4). They cover by their expertise the fields of molecular biology and enzymology, organic and analytical chemistry, microbiology, immunology and microbial ecology, the study of complex ecosystems including bioinformatics, cell signalling, structural biology and germ free (GF) animal models (unique in the Czech Republic). The selection of the scientific groups therefore technologically and professionally covers the entire spectrum of the complex tasks to be solved, with the exception of WP2 activities, which are fully secured by the team of Prof. Štěpánek, the ERC grant holder (UCT). This team has a unique technology, the use of which is crucial for most downstream project activities. On the other hand, critical recommendations for upgrading the technology of the UCT will be based on the research of the IMIC and CUNI teams. The participating research teams from the CUNI have been selected on the basis of long-term cooperation with IMIC teams of WP3 and complement the necessary know-how to ensure that all planned project activities are fully supported both in terms of personnel and technology. IMIC continuously follows and evaluates current trends and needs in the field of research, development and innovation and also focuses on contract research and production in the fields of biology, chemistry and medical sciences. The UCT has even more extensive experience in the field of applied research. This long-term experience guarantees the recognition and effective usage of the project activities application potential.
International Scientific Advisory Board
The International Scientific Advisory Board (ISAB) of the project is composed of six members who were nominated so that their expertise covers the whole spectrum of the proposed project activities. Date of the annual project meeting with ISAB members: 14-15 October 2024.