Automated Scientific Discovery - Materials Science (RAISE pilot) (RIA)

Develop closed-loop experimentation by adding AI decision-making to laboratories that already have substantial automation. Projects connect adaptive software, instruments and robotics so that experiments can be planned, performed and analysed with human oversight. The materials-science scope includes batteries, photovoltaics, carbon capture, water purification, remediation, drug discovery and sustainable fabrics. Work combines interoperable laboratory systems, secure research-data infrastructure, resource optimisation and functional demonstrators, with close collaboration between AI and domain scientists.

The single-stage proposal deadline is 2 February 2027 at 17:00 Brussels time. The expected EU contribution is around EUR 9 million per project; proposals requesting different amounts may be considered.

An institutional consortium must include at least three independent legal entities in three different EU Member States or Horizon Europe associated countries, with at least one established in an EU Member State. Other partners and their funding eligibility follow Annex B. Legal entities established in China cannot participate in the AI in Science actions. Applications are submitted by eligible organisations. Participant registration, applicable institutional gender-equality requirements and the remaining General Annex B conditions apply.