Work Plan
The MOBILES project started in September 2024 and is expected to achieve its objectives by February 2028, all under the coordination of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA). Project research and innovation activities are divided into six work packages (WPs), leading to the creation of 18 reports (deliverables) submitted to the granting authority.
Due to the need to elaborate a focused work plan for the duration of the project (42 months), MOBILES will mainly focus on a selected number of high priority pollutants from the following categories:
- Contaminants of Emerging Concern: Hormones (17ß-estradiol); pesticides, antibiotics
- Persistent Mobile Pollutants: heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Pb, Hg), metalloid (arsenic); micro- and nano-plastics
- Pathogens: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Campylobacter; spores of Bacillus cereus, Clostridioides difficile (formerly Clostridium difficile) and Bacillus cereus; and methicillin- and vancomycin-resistance genes as representative ARGs.
For each category one or more “model” chemicals/microbe will be selected and explored; thus, MOBILES will develop tools for the three main pollutant families and build the foundation for further studies with new innovative insights, methodologies, and results. Importantly, the developed devices and organisms will be implemented using flexible technologies, which can guarantee the detection of several pollutants with the same tool and easy adaptation to other biotic and abiotic pollutants.
Electronic Biosensors for Environmental Monitoring
WP1 aims to develop robust, selective, and sensitive electrochemical biosensors to monitor pesticides, pathogenic bacteria strains, antimicrobial resistant genes, and spores in soil, water, and air, enabling rapid on-site detection of various pollutants and significantly improving environmental monitoring and health efforts.
Detection of Pollutants via Biotic Sensors
WP2 aims to deliver advanced biotic sensors for detecting heavy metals, pollutants, and plastics, improving environmental monitoring and remediation capabilities. It will include genetic modifications of plants and bacteria for detecting heavy metals, antibiotics, and pesticides, and using marine diatoms for monitoring bioplastic degradation.
Metagenomics Database and Fully-Sequenced Polluted Soil Microbiota
WP3 aims to analyse the microorganisms from polluted areas to identify species composition and gene clusters associated with pollutant resistance and tolerance, resulting in a comprehensive metagenomics database and detailed characterization of soil microbiota from polluted environments. This will support better management practices for soil rehabilitation and offer insights into microbial adaptations to pollution.
Environmental Performance and Safety of Developed Organisms, and Packaging of Sensor Devices
WP4 aims to ensure the safety and environmental impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) developed by the MOBILES project and the packaging and performance of electrochemical biosensors. The results will support the safe deployment of GMOs and enhance the reliability and effectiveness of sensor devices in environmental monitoring.
Dissemination, Exploitation, and Communication of Project Outcomes
WP5 aims to raise awareness about electrochemical and organism-based biosensors, as well as metagenomics studies for environmental monitoring and pollution detection. By creating and executing a strategic plan, the project will maximize its impact and contribute to advancements in environmental monitoring and pollution detection.
Project Management and Coordination
WP6 aims to ensure the smooth operation of the project through effective management and coordination. By overseeing administrative, financial, and technical aspects, facilitating collaboration with other EU projects, and ensuring proper data management, WP6 will support the successful execution and impact of the project.
