Event Details
The event took place on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, and was hosted at the FORTH facilities, nestled in the captivating city of Heraklion, Crete.
Dr. Panagiotis Kastritis Proudly Represents NHRF in Crete
Dr. Panagiotis Kastritis, the ERA Chair Holder, proudly represented the NHRF with his presence at the inaugural event for seven Greek ERA Chair research projects . With his groundbreaking project, Hot4Cryo, taking place at NHRF, he exemplifies the spirit of innovation and excellence that defines NHRF’s research efforts.
The ERA Chairs Program and Greece’s Remarkable Success
The “European Research Area Chairs” (ERA Chairs) program, a pivotal initiative within the Horizon Europe framework, is designed with the overarching aim of drawing in outstanding scholars and researchers from international backgrounds to Greek academic institutions.
Greece’s ERA Chairs Program has been remarkably successful within the Horizon Europe framework. Seven ERA Chairs will be established across five institutions, including FORTH (three Chairs), the NHRF (one Chair), the Biomedical Sciences Research Center “Alexandros Fleming” (one Chair), the University of Crete (one Chair), and the University of Patras (one Chair). With a combined budget of 17.5 million euros, these projects will create Centers of Excellence in fields such as astrophysics, biodiversity, biopesticides, biophysics, cryogenic electron microscopy, biomolecular engineering, synthetic biology, and digital humanities. This program aims to attract and retain top-tier international talent, advancing research excellence under the guidance of ERA Chair appointees.
Hot4cryo in Brief
Hot4cryo is dedicated to establishing the CryoUNITe, a state-of-the-art electron cryo-microscopy unit, at the NHRF. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in cryo-EM technology in Greece and Southeast Europe, fostering advancements in biomolecular and materials research. By doing so, Hot4cryo aligns with EU Missions Cancer, Soil, and Green Deal, contributing to NHRF’s research focus.
CryoUNITe will not only enhance NHRF’s capabilities but also facilitate cross-institutional collaboration and high-quality research. It represents a Unit of Excellence, promoting knowledge sharing, scientific interaction, and societal engagement. Ultimately, Hot4cryo seeks to reverse brain drain and promote “brain gain” while positively impacting local and regional economies.