The Institut de Física d’Altes Energies (IFAE) has launched the Severo Ochoa Proof of Concept (SOPoC) programme, a new funding initiative designed to help researchers validate innovative ideas at an early stage and generate the preliminary results needed to secure future competitive funding.
The SOPoC programme supports the development of small prototypes and first demonstrator systems. Its objective is to provide researchers with the resources needed to test key concepts, collect initial data and strengthen the scientific and technological foundations of their ideas. These activities can subsequently lead to larger research proposals, intellectual property protection processes and new opportunities for knowledge and technology transfer.
In addition to advancing specific research directions, Proof of Concept projects can play an important strategic role by fostering collaborations between institutions and preparing future coordinated research initiatives. As part of the Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence programme, IFAE plans to launch a dedicated SOPoC call every year throughout the duration of the grant, providing targeted support for innovative ideas that require an initial validation phase before larger-scale funding applications can be submitted.
Proposals are evaluated according to their innovation and impact, development potential and overall viability.
First funded projects
The first SOPoC call has selected two projects, led by researchers from IFAE’s Quantum Computing and Neutrino groups.
Quantum Computing in high magnetic fields
The project led by Pol Forn-Díaz explores novel materials for superconducting qubits capable of operating in high magnetic field environments. The work is being carried out in collaboration with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in Germany, one of the leading institutions in the field. The prototype developments supported by the programme are expected to provide valuable input for future quantum technologies designed to operate under challenging experimental conditions.
Next-generation neutrino detectors
The project led by Thorsten Lux focuses on the development of an opaque scintillator tracker prototype for future neutrino oscillation experiments, particularly Hyper-Kamiokande. The initiative brings together researchers from IFAE, ICCUB, ETH Zurich, Imperial College London, Sorbonne University and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz. Beyond advancing detector R&D, the project will help strengthen international scientific networks and lay the groundwork for future coordinated funding proposals.