Doctoral Candidates (DCs), supervisors, and project partners reunited once again, this time in Paris. During the winter period, the city is as busy as ever, and so were all members of the DarChemDN project. The second workshop began on 21 January and included lectures on advanced methods and techniques essential for the project’s integrity.
The consortium achieved a great deal during the three-day workshop—from informative lectures and sharing results obtained so far to visiting MIC (Microfluidics Innovation Center) and diving into Parisian history with a team-building activity. The participants knew that in order to work hard and stay productive, maintaining energy levels was key, so each workshop day concluded with a consortium dinner in the evening.
Project Updates & Research Presentations
DAY 1
The meeting commenced with a welcome session led by Sijbren Otto (RUG) and Apostolos Paralikas (REA). This was followed by a Tour de Table, where all research teams introduced their roles within the project, alongside presentations from Associated Partners.
A presentation by the REA project officer outlined the monitoring framework and objectives of the mid-term check. Sijbren Otto (RUG) then provided an update on the network’s progress, covering deliverables, milestones, and risk management.
Each DC presented their research project in two sessions, detailing their background, research objectives, and expected training. These sessions encouraged the exchange of ideas and strengthened collaboration across institutions.
The day concluded with a restricted session, where DCs discussed their experiences in the network with the REA project officer, focusing on training, supervision, and career impact. A feedback session followed, identifying training areas for further development. The day wrapped up with a consortium dinner at Le Café Parisien.
Workshop: Analytical & Experimental Methods
DAY 2
The second day featured scientific tutorials and lectures, starting with an overview of the DarChemDN project presented by Sijbren Otto.
Lectures were delivered by participants from various universities and companies on topics such as Advanced Mass Spectrometry, Experimental Systems Chemistry, and Numerical Methods and Statistics. A further discussion on the previous ethical questionnaire was held, reminding everyone of the importance of ethical considerations in research.
The day ended with a lab tour at ESPCI Paris, providing participants with valuable insights into different research labs.
Computational Methods & Microfluidics
DAY 3
The final day began with an overview session by Andrew Griffiths (ESPCI), followed by presentations on:
- Computational Methods in Darwinian Chemistry – Eörs Szathmáry, Balázs Könnyű, Dániel Vörös (PARM)
- Experimental Microfluidics – Andrew Griffiths (ESPCI)
After a wrap-up discussion, participants transferred to MIC for a lab visit hosted by Anatole Geffrault (MIC), offering insights into cutting-edge microfluidic technologies.
Social Events
This workshop aimed to strengthen connections between participants through social events, including a series of consortium dinners and a team-building activity: Solve the mysterious disappearances at Notre-Dame. With a touch of competition and plenty of teamwork, by the end of the game, everyone was a winner.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The Paris workshop successfully advanced the DarChemDN project by fostering collaboration, providing valuable training, and strengthening interdisciplinary ties.
By Stefan Georgiev, Xiuwn Lyu and Zhangfan Li – the DarChemDN outreach team
