Training Europe’s Next Generation in Glyconanomaterials
CanGoNano is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN) bringing together universities, research institutes, and industry partners across Europe to explore a fast-emerging field: glyconanomaterials (GNMs).
The mission is straightforward but ambitious—design nanoscale systems built from carbohydrates that can interact with the immune system in highly specific ways. These systems could reshape how we approach cancer immunotherapy, vaccines, and targeted drug delivery.
Rather than focusing on a single discipline, CanGoNano sits at the crossroads of:
- Chemistry and materials science
- Nanotechnology
- Glycobiology
- Immunology
This interdisciplinary approach is also reflected in the structure of the programme: multiple doctoral candidates (DCs) working on complementary projects across Europe, each contributing a piece to the bigger picture.
What Are Glyconanomaterials?
Glyconanomaterials are nanostructures that incorporate carbohydrates (sugars) to mimic or influence biological processes. Because sugars play a key role in how cells communicate—especially in immune recognition—they are powerful tools for designing smarter therapeutics.
Applications being explored in CanGoNano include:
- Targeted delivery of antigens and mRNA
- Immune system modulation
- Nanocarriers for precision medicine
- Next-generation vaccine platforms
Doctoral Positions Across Europe
The CanGoNano network offers multiple PhD positions (Doctoral Candidates, DCs) hosted by leading institutions and companies. Each position focuses on a specific scientific angle while contributing to the shared goal of advancing glyconanomaterials.
Here is a high-level overview of the positions and their locations:
A Closer Look: Cyclodextrins at CarboHyde (DC-4)
Among the positions, DC-4 in Budapest highlights an important class of carbohydrate-based materials: cyclodextrins.
Hosted by CarboHyde, this project explores how cyclodextrins—ring-shaped sugar molecules—can be engineered into nanocarriers.
Their unique structure allows them to:
- Encapsulate therapeutic molecules
- Form supramolecular assemblies
- Be chemically modified for targeting
In the context of CanGoNano, they are being developed into delivery platforms for biologics, including nucleic acids and immune-active compounds.
Training Beyond the Lab
A defining feature of CanGoNano is its training philosophy. Doctoral candidates are not only conducting research—they are part of a structured programme that includes:
- International secondments across partner institutions
- Exposure to both academic and industrial environments
- Training in entrepreneurship, communication, and innovation
- Collaboration within a tightly connected European network
This ensures graduates are prepared for careers in biotech, pharma, and advanced materials research.
Looking Forward
CanGoNano reflects a broader shift in science: moving from isolated discoveries toward integrated, application-driven research ecosystems.
By combining:
- cutting-edge nanotechnology
- the biological specificity of carbohydrates
- and strong academic–industry collaboration
the project aims to unlock new strategies for treating complex diseases.
And just as importantly, it is building a cohort of researchers equipped to carry those innovations forward.