ICREA Academia 2022. Biological photochemistry. Santi Nonell

This project presents a highly ambitious and scientifically mature program in biological photochemistry, addressing both fundamental photobiological processes and their translation into innovative medical applications such as photodynamic cancer therapy, antimicrobial treatments, and early diagnosis of brain tumors.

The candidate combines a strong track record of high-impact publications, international collaborations, and leadership roles—including coordination of the H2020 FET OPEN *Light4Lungs* project, presidency of the European Society for Photobiology, and editorial leadership in the field—with a clear strategic vision articulated along three axes: expanding current research to new medical applications, strengthening international networks through ERC and Marie Curie initiatives, and building institutional capacity via a new Singular Laboratory in Molecular Photonics. The proposal demonstrates significant originality, clinical relevance, and institutional alignment, although its success will depend on sustaining broad international collaborations and securing long-term support to realize its ambitious goals. This project has been awarded under the 2022 ICREA Call