The RADICAL consortium convened in Athens for the third General Assembly on 6-7 June 2024. Hosted by the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), this meeting brought together 17 members from five European countries to discuss the progress and future steps of the RADICAL project.
“The discussions were comprehensive and targeted; they will definitely help the consortium as a whole to reach its final goals,” noted Prof. Leonidas Tsetseris of NTUA. The assembly featured various focused sessions and meetings, each playing a crucial role in advancing the project’s objectives.
Work Package Meetings
Each work package (WP) held scientific discussions, where recent advancements were shared, and next steps were meticulously planned. These sessions ensured that every aspect of the project was progressing in alignment with the consortium’s overall goals.
Executive Board Meeting
The Executive Board members reviewed the overall project progress. They Board also addressed administrative aspects crucial for the final months of the project. This meeting ensured that the project remains on track and that all administrative tasks are handled efficiently.
Innovation Meeting
Discussions on ongoing collaboration and innovation opportunities were a highlight of the innovation meeting. The focus was on future sensor work and streamlining efforts post-project. This ensured that the innovations developed continue to benefit the scientific community and industry.
Meetings in progress, Day 2
Focus Session
Facilitated by UCC Academy, the focus session reflected on each work package’s progress, the challenges encountered, and the successes achieved. This session was instrumental in creating a detailed timeline for the final experiments and administrative work needed before the project’s conclusion.
Strengthening Bonds and Fostering Future Collaborations
Beyond the formal sessions, the consortium members had the opportunity to strengthen relationships during group dinners. These informal gatherings allowed members to unwind and foster stronger personal connections, enhancing the collaborative spirit of the consortium.
Pictures from 3 group dinners
Connecting with NTUA
Prof. Leonidas Tsetseris, the host from NTUA, introduced several NTUA staff members working in related fields. This interaction was a valuable opportunity to establish more connections within NTUA, benefitting both the current project and future sensor-related initiatives.
“The RADICAL consortium is a highly motivated interdisciplinary group of people, but also an ‘easy-going’ group. It was a pleasure to act as a host for the General Assembly in Athens“
– Prof. Tsetseris
Pioneering Low-Cost Atmospheric Radicals Detection
The RADICAL project is on the brink of a significant breakthrough in atmospheric science. By developing a low-cost sensor capable of electrically detecting short-lived atmospheric radicals, the project aims to revolutionize how we monitor and model these critical components of air quality. These small, affordable sensors will detect radicals such as hydroxyl and nitrate, which play key roles in both day- and night-time atmospheric chemistry.
Group picture from the RADICAL General Assembly, 2024
If successful, the RADICAL sensors could be deployed globally, providing unprecedented insights into atmospheric chemistry and significantly enhancing our ability to monitor air quality. Furthermore, the technology could be adapted to detect other gases, opening up a wide range of potential applications.
As the RADICAL project moves into its final phase, the consortium’s efforts and collaborations will be crucial in realising these innovative goals. The recent assembly in Athens has laid a solid foundation for the project’s successful completion and future advancements.
