Triple success: Our projects receive support in the PRAK program

The results of the selection process in the Programme for the Development of Applications and Commercialisation (PRAK) of the Czech Academy of Sciences have been announced. Out of 21 submitted projects, 13 were awarded funding. Among the successful applicants are three projects from the J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the CAS, confirming the strong application potential of our research.

Floating photocatalytic composite for the removal of pharmaceuticals from wastewater
This project builds on the development of an innovative composite material that effectively decomposes pharmaceutical residues in wastewater through photocatalysis. The goal is to test the technology under real-world conditions and prepare it for implementation in practice, for example in wastewater treatment plants.
Principal Investigator: Lenka Belháčová

Intellectual property strategy and market analysis for new photostable nanocluster fluorophores
A team led by Dr. Carl Harrison has developed a new type of gold nanocluster fluorophores with exceptional resistance to photobleaching and broad applicability in fluorescence microscopy, biosensors, and clinical applications. The project focuses on intellectual property protection strategy, market analysis, and preparation for establishing a spin-off company that will commercialize these fluorophores.
Principal Investigator: Carl Harrison

Establishing a spin-off company for testing biocompatibility and drug interactions at biological interfaces
The aim of this project is to create a spin-off company offering advanced testing services for the pharmaceutical, med-tech, and cosmetics sectors. It builds on two technologies developed at the Heyrovský Institute: a validated in vitro method for assessing ocular irritation based on tear film simulation, and a newly developed platform for evaluating the biocompatibility of polymer surfaces for implantable medical devices.
Principal Investigator: Lukasz Cwiklik

From laboratory to real-world application

We warmly congratulate all the principal investigators of the successful projects on securing funding and wish them every success in further developing and applying their research in practice. The success of our projects in the PRAK program confirms that the results of scientific work at the Heyrovský Institute are not only of high quality but also have strong application potential, benefiting both society and industry.