| It is proposed to establish a Network of Excellence in the area of Nanophotonics and Molecular Photonics to address the near- and long term needs of photonic functional components. PHOREMOST builds on the critical mass existing in Europe in this emerging area, rapidly developing as a result of the concomitant progress in nanostructured materials, nanofabrication technologies, nano-scale characterisation techniques, novel concepts linking electromagnetic radiation in electronic and optical systems, recent concepts involving optical properties of non-periodic, fractal and quasi-crystal structures, as well as a better understanding of non-linear properties of molecules. The main driving force behind nanophotonics is the expectation to access the molecular scale dispensing with electrical contacts.PHOREMOST will integrate the activities in the nanophotonics area of 34 pioneering and world- leading partners from universities, research centres and industry to: (a) overcome fragmentation, (b) ensure efficient use of resources, (c) identify future RandD opportunities, (d) guarantee the supply of suitably trained personnel, (e) anticipate future research needs, (f) ensure the excellence in research translates into applications in the life sciences, environment, infotainment and security, (g) benefit from the untapped expertise in accession and third countries and, (h) contribute to the public understanding of science. To achieve its objectives the Network organises its long-lasting impact work, into a synergetic JPA with integrating and spreading excellence activities. Its JPR consists of four strands: gaining functionality by incorporating nanostructures in microsystems, fabricating novel nanostructured materials and functionalising them and, finally, applying this new knowledge to photonic device realisations. The management activities are designed to ensure a smooth and efficient running of the network, to protect the knowledge generated and to monitor the JPA. |