We are happy to be part of two prestigious European Horizon-funded Marie Cure Doctoral Training Projects based on the ongoing RCN project Multispecies Biofilm to investigate non-antibiotic therapies in dentistry (MISFAITH). It's not often that two H2020 projects are included in the same call!
Our role in the project will be to use the newly developed multispecies biofilm to evaluate different strategies to combat peri-implantitis. Below is a short description of the two MSCA DN projects that will start up in 2026
StraDiVarious (Doctoral Network on Strains, Diagnostics and Variants) is a groundbreaking interdisciplinary initiative aiming to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of today's most significant global health challenges. By targeting the critical initial interactions between pathogenic bacteria and host cells, this project seeks to revolutionise the diagnosis and treatment of infections caused by clinically relevant pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, and Staphylococcus aureus. Central to this effort is investigating bacterial adhesins—surface proteins crucial for bacterial attachment and infection establishment. StraDiVarious integrates cutting-edge methodologies across microbiology, structural biology, bioinformatics, and machine learning, leveraging this interdisciplinary approach to distinguish between virulent and less virulent bacterial strains at an unprecedented resolution. UiO, in collaboration with renowned European universities, research institutions, and industry leaders, will train a new generation of doctoral candidates equipped with advanced skills in genetic modification, cryo-electron microscopy, microfluidics, organoids, and sensor technology. The outcomes of StraDiVarious will not only significantly enhance precision diagnostics and therapeutic strategies but also contribute substantially to alleviating healthcare burdens, promoting sustainable health solutions, and improving patient quality of life across Europe and beyond. The University of Helsinki coordinates this project.
The SHIELD project (Strategies for Healing Implant-associated Infections and Enhancing Longevity in Devices) addresses the significant challenge of implant-associated infections (IAIs), which pose a critical threat to medical implant efficacy in orthopaedics, otology, and odontology. IAIs, often exacerbated by biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance, lead to chronic complications and substantial healthcare costs. SHIELD seeks to advance the understanding of IAIs through innovative research in regenerative medicine, biomaterial science, and translational research models. This project integrates basic science with clinical and preclinical testing to develop new antibacterial biomaterials and infection management strategies. Both projects will provide comprehensive training for doctoral candidates, equipping them with advanced interdisciplinary skills essential for future leaders in healthcare innovation. By collaborating with international institutions (Cambridge, Dresden, Torino, Birmingham, Dublin, Regensburg, Barcelona) and industry partners (AmiCoat AS, Corticalis AS, Oticon Medical AB,Heraeus Medical GmbH, ANTHOGYR SAS) UiO aims to enhance precision diagnostics, therapeutic strategies, and antimicrobial solutions, significantly improving healthcare outcomes and patient quality of life globally. The University of Gothenburg coordinates this project.