Objective
Cryo-iLM aims to transfer key results from the ERC project MICROCRYO into a modular, portable cryo-immersion microscopy platform that can be adopted by the wider life-science community and integrated into existing cryo-EM laboratories. The core challenge addressed is that cryogenic fluorescence light microscopy (cryo-FLM) and cryo-correlative workflows remain limited by low numerical aperture (NA) optics and by practical barriers to combining high-performance cryogenic fluorescence imaging with downstream cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM/cryo-ET), particularly for demanding applications such as super-resolution imaging.
The project will advance a system that combines (i) a cryo-immersion objective, (ii) a refractive-index-matched cryogenic immersion medium, (iii) a compact, low-drift, high-cooling-power cryo-stage and (iv) a sample handling and cleaning concept that restores EM compatibility after cryo-immersion imaging. Starting from TRL 3, the PoC will deliver a TRL-4 prototype configuration with a defined product architecture (modules, interfaces) and validation in pilot studies focused on super-resolution and cryo-CLEM use cases with scientific and industrial partners. In parallel, the project will execute an IP workstream (audit, landscape and preliminary FTO and follow-on protection strategy) and a structured market analysis to identify priority user segments, quantify value drivers and select a business model that enables broad accessibility and scalable manufacturing with industry partners.
By month 18, the project will provide the evidence package required to pursue an EIC Transition: an externally validated TRL-4 prototype, a partner pathway for commercialisation and a go/no-go decision supported by technical KPIs, user feedback and a credible route to market.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences physical sciences optics microscopy super resolution microscopy
- social sciences economics and business business and management business models
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2026-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
64289 Darmstadt
Germany
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.