In 2026, POLYMAT continues to strengthen its role in European research and innovation, participating in several projects funded by programmes such as MSCA Doctoral Networks (DN), MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships (PF), and POCTEFA. These initiatives address key challenges in health, sustainable agriculture, advanced materials, and energy storage. Among these, POLYMAT is responsible for coordinating two strategic projects: SUS-BIOCROP and REMAP.

Within the Doctoral Networks, the CMT project, led by Prof. Aitor Larrañaga, develops tiny machines for precise drug delivery, enhancing bioavailability while protecting healthy cells, and combines this research with doctoral training to advance drug delivery systems in complex brain environments. The SUS-BIOCROP project, led by Dr. Danila Merino, trains the next generation of researchers in sustainable agriculture, integrating materials science, plant biology, and environmental sustainability to improve crop resilience, increase yields, and foster environmentally responsible farming practices. Another Doctoral Network, SCARPA, led by Prof. Haritz Sardon, addresses the sustainable management of footwear in the EU, where over one million tonnes of shoe waste are generated annually, by training researchers in circular economy strategies to increase recycling rates and reduce environmental impact.

In the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships, CRISPRGlue, led by Prof. Marcelo Caledon, explores targeted gene therapies for glioblastoma, combining CRISPR/Cas technology with advanced nanomedicine to overcome biological barriers and minimize off-target effects. The NeuroNZyme project, led by Prof. Ana Beloqui, will also contribute to advancing knowledge in its respective field.

Under the POCTEFA programme, Trans-cap, led by Dr. Irune Villaluenga (POLYMAT-EHU, Spain) in collaboration with Dr. Valeria M. Blanco (ICMAB, Spain), develops cross-border micro-supercapacitors for embedded electronics and advanced energy storage applications. Another project, Trans-border, also led by Dr. Irune Villaluenga, investigates solid organic batteries for sustainable electric mobility and stationary storage, supporting the energy transition. Finally, REMAP, led by Dr. Shaghayegh Hamzehlou and Prof. Nicholas Ballard, represents another key initiative coordinated by POLYMAT.

These projects reflect POLYMAT’s commitment to fostering cutting-edge research with tangible European impact, training the next generation of researchers, and contributing to innovative solutions in health, sustainability, and advanced technologies.