Challenges in active matter

Active Matter (AM) is a new, fast growing interdisciplinary field at the interface between biology and statistical physics that aims to understand ensembles of active particles. The term “active” refers to the ability of the particle to convert energy into work, e.g. to self-propel. The ultimate goal of Active Matter is to develop a material science of living systems and shed light on highly relevant and diverse topics such as bacterial infections, cancer growth, tissue formation, and embryogenesis, as well as on the design and synthesis of biomimetic materials, which are likely to play a fundamental in medicine in the coming years. The aim of the workshop is twofold. On the one hand, it aims to present AM as a transversal, cross-disciplinary research axis within EUTOPIA bringing together renowned international leading experts in the field and the main actors working on AM within the Alliance to discuss the main current challenges in AM. On the other hand, the workshop strives to foster joint AM projects among the EUTOPIA member universities.