Ali Hassanali, a Senior Research Scientist at the ICTP Condensed Matter and Statistical Physics section has been awarded a Proof of Concept Grant by the European Research Council (ERC) to explore sustainable, skin-safe UV protection using molecules designed with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The project, CUSHOP (Capturing UV Sunlight Using Hydrogen-Bond Networks: Organic Sun Screens for Skin Protection), will combine generative AI and lab experiments to develop new organic molecules that absorb UVA and UVB rays – the two types of UV light responsible for skin damage. These molecules could be integrated into new sunscreen products, thus addressing rising skin-cancer rates and the growing concerns about the harmful impact of current sunscreens ingredients on marine ecosystems.
