RoboChem is a fully autonomous, AI-driven robotic platform capable of optimizing reactions with minimal human intervention. Presented in a paper in Science early 2024, it applies the principles of automated flow chemistry to explore photocatalytic synthesis routes. RoboChem holds, however, potential for many other types of reactions. Through validation in industrially relevant contexts, Noël wants to demonstrate RoboChem’s transformative potential and pave the way for a spin-off company dedicated to advancing automation in synthetic chemistry.

The ERC Proof of Concept funding will aid in that development, Noël says. “We have identified several key challenges that currently limit RoboChem’s full potential. These relate, amongst others, to comparing obtained data with results from literature, as well as optimizing the workflow. By further improving our data-driven reaction optimization framework we will enhance the predictive modelling capacity. Improving the workflow will enhance efficiency, reproducibility, and scalability of the system.”

The ERC Proof of Concept grants are designed to help ERC grantees to bridge the gap between the results of their pioneering research and the early phases of its commercialisation or societal application. In the current first granting round of 2025, 150 projects were selected out of 480 proposals, receiving a total of €22.5 million in funding. The grant scheme is part of Horizon Europe, the EU’s research and innovation programme.  

See also

• Autonomous synthesis robot uses AI to speed up chemical discovery
• “Embracing automation is not about replacing chemists but about augmenting their capabilities”
• ERC Consolidator Grant for Prof. Timothy Noël of Flow Chemistry
• Over €20 million to turn frontier science into practical solutions