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John Cairns
Professor Tan, who is also a Tutorial Fellow at Balliol College, specialises in nanoscale engineering. His project, titled "Resilient Temperature- and Pressure-Sensitive Paints for Hyperspectral Imaging", builds on work from his previous ERC Consolidator Grant (PROMOFS) and aims to create non-invasive smart coating systems that can simultaneously map temperature and pressure across surfaces in real time.
The technology could transform how we monitor extreme environments in aerospace, thermo-mechanical and sustainable energy systems, where traditional sensors often fail. Drawing on his group's expertise in multifunctional nanocomposites and optical sensing, the project will develop durable, high-resolution paints capable of operating under the most challenging conditions.
Professor Tan said: 'I'm thrilled to receive this ERC Proof of Concept Grant. It provides a valuable opportunity to take our scientific discoveries closer to real-world application. With input from the Oxford University Innovation (OUI) and 2 industrial partners (Living Optics Ltd and Deben Ltd), this grant will help us develop revolutionary technologies that can translate fundamental materials research into tangible benefits for the society.'
Only 150 projects received funding in this highly competitive round, from researchers across 21 countries. The ERC's Proof of Concept scheme is part of Horizon Europe, the EU's flagship research and innovation programme. This year's successful applicants work across diverse areas including environmental technology, artificial intelligence and energy systems. These grants provide crucial funding to transform cutting-edge discoveries into real-world applications with commercial potential.
The award exemplifies MPLS's commitment to fostering research that bridges fundamental discovery with practical innovation, ensuring Oxford's scientific breakthroughs reach beyond the laboratory to benefit society.