News
JAN 20
2026
30 years Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
For three decades, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions has supported researchers across Europe and beyond, fostering excellence, mobility, and collaboration in research and innovation.
At PlasmACT, we are proud to be part of the MSCA community and grateful for the support that enables our doctoral candidates to pursue interdisciplinary research at the interface of plasma science and biomedicine.
Here’s to 30 years of empowering researchers and shaping the future of European research 🚀
JAN 7
2026
Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition
🧪✨ Last week, the PlasmACT team had the incredible opportunity to represent the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), the European Commission, and the ScienceisWonderful! initiative at the Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, along with colleagues from the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, in Dublin – EU Science, Research and Innovation
Over the course of the event, Lauren McKeever, Zengyu W., and Sidharth Ramesh connected with hundreds of students, educators, and science enthusiasts, sharing insights into our medical gas plasma research and explaining how our interdisciplinary project is advancing plasma technology for healthcare. It was amazing to see so many young scientists excited to ask questions, explore our experiments, and discover the real-world impact of research.
Representing the MSCA and Science is Wonderful! at such a high-profile event was a truly unique experience. It gave us a platform to highlight the innovation, collaboration, and creativity that drives PlasmACT, while emphasizing the importance of science communication and outreach. Every conversation reminded us that research is not just about data – it’s about inspiring curiosity, sparking ideas, and building the next generation of scientists.
We were also thrilled to meet and interact with incredible science communicators and leaders:
Mark Langtry (aka Mark the Science Guy), who interviewed our team and created a video on his channel promoting our work and the MSCA to young scientists 🎥
Two inspiring Irish science and educational influencers, Ms. M. Biochem and Mr. ODonoghu
TD James Lawless, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science Ireland 🇮🇪
Tánaiste Simon Harris, whose engagement highlighted the importance of science and research at the national level
A huge thank you to everyone who visited our stand, asked questions, and shared in our enthusiasm for plasma research. Your curiosity and engagement make our work meaningful and motivate us to keep pushing the boundaries of science.
Together, initiatives like the MSCA and Science is Wonderful! show how interdisciplinary research can make a real-world impact, and how science outreach connects Europe’s researchers with future generations of innovators.
DEC 18
2025
New PlasmACT Publication Alert!
We are delighted to share that Zengyu W. (DC1) has published a new review article titled “Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry in Plasma Medicine.” This marks the second scientific publication from the PlasmACT Doctoral Network, showcasing the breadth and depth of research emerging from our consortium.
This comprehensive review highlights the central role of biomolecular mass spectrometry in uncovering how medical gas plasma interacts with biological systems. Over more than two decades of multidisciplinary research, gas plasma has become a clinically established modality for skin-related diseases – particularly chronic wounds – and shows growing promise in malignant and inflammatory conditions.
🔗 Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/d42S2cUZ
Congratulations to Zengyu and the co-authors on this important contribution to the plasma medicine community – and another milestone for PlasmACT!
DEC 7
2025
PlasmACT Publication Milestone!
We are delighted to share that the first scientific article from the PlasmACT Doctoral Network has now been published! 🎉
This review article, led by Lauren McKeever (DC2) in collaboration with PlasmACT researchers, provides a comprehensive overview of medical gas plasma as a promising additional treatment option for actinic keratosis (AK) – a precancerous skin condition that can progress to invasive, potentially life-threatening cancer if left untreated.
This publication marks an exciting step forward for our consortium as we work to advance understanding and therapeutic innovation in plasma medicine. It also reflects the strong interdisciplinary collaboration at the heart of PlasmACT.
🔗 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/dQmCQJrr
A huge congratulations to Lauren and all contributors for this excellent achievement! We look forward to sharing more scientific outputs as our network continues to grow.
JUL 13
2025
Secondment Spotlight
Pradeep Murugesan at Universiteit Antwerpen 🇧🇪
As part of the PlasmACT doctoral programme, Pradeep recently completed his academic secondment at the University of Antwerp, working under the supervision of Prof. Annemie Bogaerts in the Plasmant group, with technical support from Dr. Pepijn Heirman.
His work focused on modeling gas-phase chemical kinetics using a quasi-1D approach for a helium plasma jet – the parent version of the multi-jet plasma applicator prototype currently studied in PlasmACT for actinic keratosis treatment. The model aimed to unravel the complex reaction chemistry, particularly the production and loss pathways of key biomedical RONS. Once validated, it will also provide insight into species that are challenging to measure experimentally.
💬 “Through this project, I acquired valuable skills in applying numerical approaches to chemical kinetics. This experience complements my experimental work and boosts my confidence in integrating modeling with experiments. I learned a lot from Pepijn, who guided me from understanding the model to running simulations and refining it toward realistic approximations. I’m also excited to continue collaborating with him remotely to explore new parameters and extend the model further.”
During the secondment, Pradeep also had the chance to interact with the wider PLASMANT team, as well as having discussions with Dr. Eric Robert during his mid-term visit and online discussions with Dr. Augusto Stancampiano, which provided valuable insights and ideas for testing the model.
🔬 As part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions European Doctoral Network, PlasmACT enables fellows to gain hands-on, interdisciplinary experience through academic secondments. These placements strengthen skills, foster collaboration, and bridge expertise across physics, chemistry, and biology.
🙌 A significant step in advancing plasma modelling for biomedical applications – well done, Pradeep!
JUL 11
2025
Secondment Spotlight
Ritu at Universitätsmedizin Rostock 🇩🇪
As part of the PlasmACT doctoral programme, Ritu Zende recently completed her academic secondment at Universitätsmedizin Rostock Rostock University Medical Center, working with Dr. Lars Boeckmann in the Clinic and Polyclinic for Dermatology and Venereology.
Her research investigated the impact of electric fields on cell permeability, looking beyond reactive species to uncover additional mechanisms involved in plasma-induced cell death.
Ritu also gained practical training in cell culture techniques, and celebrated a personal milestone – successfully running a full experiment on her own, despite never having worked with cells before!
💬 „Since my PhD focuses on plasma–skin/tissue interactions, this secondment provided valuable insight into cellular-level processes. It helped me understand additional contributing factors—beyond reactive species—that may play a role in cell death.“
🔬 As part of a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions European Doctoral Network, PlasmACT supports all fellows in gaining hands-on, interdisciplinary experience through academic secondments. These placements are a key opportunity to strengthen skills and foster collaboration across scientific fields.
🙌 A great step forward in bridging plasma physics and biology. Well done, Ritu!
JUL 8
2025
World Skin Health Day
🧬✨ Today is World Skin Health Day! ✨🧬
At PlasmACT, we’re committed to advancing innovative treatments for chronic skin conditions like actinic keratosis, a precancerous skin disease caused by prolonged sun exposure.
Our international network of researchers is exploring how cold atmospheric plasma can be used as a safe, effective, and non-invasive alternative for skin health therapies – with the goal of improving patient outcomes and preventing progression to skin cancer.
🔬 Skin health is more than skin deep – it’s about quality of life, confidence, and long-term well-being.
💡 Let’s raise awareness, promote early detection, and support research that brings us closer to accessible dermatological care for all.
JUN 30
2025
PRESS-SPEAK science communication competition
🎉 Congratulations to our PlasmACT DC Aminur Rashid for winning the PRESS-SPEAK science communication competition!
As part of the competition hosted by the Universiteit Antwerpen, early-stage researchers were challenged to present their work in clear, accessible language for a general audience. We’re thrilled that one of our own was selected as the winner, with their article now published in the university’s science outreach magazine, Stroom.
This achievement reflects the core values of PlasmACT and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions – supporting researchers to develop not only scientific expertise, but also strong communication and public engagement skills.
📰 Read the winning article here: https://lnkd.in/esruYQkr
👏 Well done Aminur, and thank you for helping bring plasma medicine to the public in such an engaging way!
JUN 12
2025
Secondment Spotlight
Agnieszka at GREMI, Orléans 🇫🇷
As part of her PlasmACT doctoral training, Agnieszka Ossowska recently completed a one-month academic secondment at the GREMI laboratory, a joint research unit of the CNRS and the University of Orléans.
Under the supervision of Dr. Augusto Stancampiano and Dr. Eric Robert, she investigated the effects of cold atmospheric plasma on skin surface temperature, and conducted electrical characterisation to examine how parameters like distance, voltage, and target type influence plasma power delivery.
She also gained hands-on experience in ex vivo sample preparation, infrared thermal imaging, and reactive species quantification – strengthening the foundation for her next phase of in vivo plasma research in actinic keratosis treatment.
Beyond the lab, Agnieszka enjoyed exploring Orléans and made her first-ever trip to Paris, all while connecting with experts in plasma physics, engineering, and materials science.
💬 „The experience of travelling, working in a new research setting, and learning techniques from a different scientific domain has not only advanced my current project but also deepened my appreciation for interdisciplinary research and its role in driving innovation.“
🔬 As part of a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions European Doctoral Network, PlasmACT places strong emphasis on collaboration, interdisciplinary research, and skills development. All doctoral candidates undertake an academic secondment to expand their expertise and foster cross-sector knowledge exchange.
👏 Well done, Agnieszka!
JUN 8
2025
Proud Moments at the PlasTHER Final Meeting
Our PlasmACT Doctoral Candidates did an amazing job presenting their work during the poster sessions at the PlasTHER COST Action Final Meeting in Barcelona last week:
Agnieszka Ossowska, Aminur Rashid, Lauren McKeever, Pradeep Murugesan, Sidharth Ramesh, Zengyu W.
It was fantastic to see their research showcased alongside such high-quality, cutting-edge work from across the plasma medicine community. 🌟
The conference itself was a great success – packed with inspiring presentations, insightful discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. A big thank you to the PlasTHER team for organizing such a dynamic and engaging event!
We’re excited to keep pushing the boundaries of gas plasma research in oncology and beyond.
MAY 21
2025
Shout-out to Ritu Zende
We’re proud to share that Ritu Zende, one of our talented PlasmACT Doctoral Candidates, delivered an excellent oral presentation on her research during one of the sessions at the PlasTHER COST Action Final Meeting in Barcelona last week.
Ritu did a fantastic job representing PlasmACT, sharing her innovative work and engaging the audience with clarity and confidence. 💡👏
It’s always inspiring to see our young researchers take the stage and contribute meaningfully to the growing conversation around gas plasma and cancer therapy.
Well done, Ritu!
MAY 13
2025
Success in Barcelona
We’re thrilled to share that our PlasmACT Training Day, co-located with PlasTHER COST Action in Barcelona, was a great success! 🙌
The day was filled with inspiring talks and engaging discussions on the potential of gas plasma in cancer research and therapy. It was energizing to see such a passionate and collaborative community coming together to explore this exciting field.
A huge thank you to all the speakers: Ramona Clemen, Lars Boeckmann, Kepp Oliver, Vanessa Vankerckhoven, Koen Beyers, and Alina R., all of the participants, and partners who made it happen – your contributions and insights truly made the day special. 💡A special thank you to Cristina Canal and her team for their help with the local organisation and ensuring the day ran smoothly.
Of course the beautiful setting of Barcelona made the event even more enjoyable for the whole team!
Looking forward to more innovation, connection, and progress in the PlasmACT journey!
MAY 9
2025
Next Stop: Barcelona!
Next week, our PlasmACT doctoral candidates will be attending the upcoming Training School on Plasma Cancer Treatment in Barcelona, which is co-localized with the PlasTHER COST Action final meeting!
This intensive day will bring together early-stage researchers, international experts, and clinicians working at the intersection of cold atmospheric plasma and cancer therapy. The training kicks off with expert-led sessions on:
🧠 What Makes Cancer So Devastating?
🧬 Pre-malignant vs. Post-malignant Cells: Similarities and Differences in Terms of Treatment
🔥 The Very Principle of Immunogenic Cell Death
💉 Topical and Intradermal Delivery in Skin Therapy – Insights from Ideavax
📄 Intellectual Property Rights Basics – Patenting for Technology Transfer
Throughout the PlasTHER meeting, our DCs will also be actively involved in poster presentations, and oral presentations, showcasing their innovative research and how it contributes to the growing field of plasma medicine. We’re proud to see our researchers engaging with the broader scientific community, sharing knowledge, and shaping the future of plasma-based cancer treatment.
Stay tuned for updates from the week!
MAY 2
2025
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
At PlasmACT, we’re using this month to raise awareness of skin cancer prevention, early detection, and innovative research.
In our new infographic, we cover:
✅ Key skin cancer statistics
✅ Common risk factors
✅ Ways to reduce your risk
✅ How our researchers are exploring the potential of medical gas plasma to treat precancerous skin lesions like actinic keratosis
💡 Knowledge saves lives — and science drives change.
Let’s keep skin health in the spotlight this May.
APR 25
2025
Science is Wonderful! –
A Look Back
We’re excited to share some fantastic photos from Science is Wonderful!, captured by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions during this inspiring event. It was an incredible experience to engage with students, researchers, and the public, sharing the potential of medical gas plasma in dermatology and beyond.
From hands-on demonstrations to thought-provoking discussions, we loved being part of this initiative that brings science closer to society. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our stand and to the MSCA for these amazing snapshots!
Swipe through to relive the moments! 📷
APR 17
2025
PlasmACT at the ADF Meeting in Berlin
Two weeks ago, Lauren McKeever and Zengyu W. had the opportunity to present their research at the ADF Meeting in Berlin, a key conference for dermatological research.
🔬 Lauren’s poster highlighted the PlasmACT network and how all of the disciplines of the project are interconnected to advance dermatological research
🧪 Zengyu’s poster highlighted her research on oxidation-driven processes in human keratinocytes analyzed by mass spectrometry
Attending the ADF Meeting provided a great platform to discuss our findings with experts in dermatology, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in the field.
We’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of plasma medicine in dermatology!
MAR 17
2025
First Presentations for the PlasmACT Doctoral Candidates
The PlasmACT Annual Symposium in Universiteit Antwerpen was a special milestone for our consortium – it marked the first time that all our Doctoral Candidates (DCs) presented their research to the group! Each of them had the opportunity to showcase their progress, share insights, and receive valuable feedback from peers and senior researchers.
From fundamental studies on medical gas plasma interactions to its applications in treating actinic keratosis, every presentation reflected the diversity and depth of research within PlasmACT. Seeing the connections between our projects come to life was incredibly rewarding!
A big thank you to our supervisors and fellow researchers for the engaging discussions and support. Excited for the next steps in our journey! 🚀
📸 Swipe through to see each of us in action!
DC1 Zengyu W.
DC2 Lauren McKeever
DC3 Pradeep Murugesan
DC4 Ritu Zende
DC5 Sidharth Ramesh
DC6 Agnieszka Ossowska
DC7 Mac Veldhuizen
DC8 Aminur Rashid
MAR 17
2025
PlasmACT Annual Symposium in Antwerp!
The PlasmACT Annual Symposium has officially wrapped up, and what an incredible event it has been! Over the past days, we had the opportunity to share our latest research, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and explore new ideas in the field of medical gas plasma.
And as a bonus—the weather in Antwerp was absolutely beautiful! ☀️🌿 It was the perfect setting for great discussions, networking, and of course, capturing this wonderful group photo outside.
A huge thank you to our speakers, fellow researchers, and organizers who made this symposium a success! It’s always inspiring to see how our interdisciplinary efforts are advancing this field. Looking forward to what’s next for PlasmACT!
MAR 16
2025
Antwerp we are coming!
⏳ 1 day to go! The Annual PlasmACT Symposium begins tomorrow in Antwerp!✨
This event marks an exciting milestone as our Doctoral Candidates present their first official research progress updates since starting their projects. From innovative experiments to new insights into medical gas plasma for dermatological care, their work is shaping the future of plasma medicine!
📅 18th–20th March 2025
📍 Antwerp, Belgium
We’re looking forward to engaging discussions, collaboration, and plenty of scientific inspiration. See you there!
MAR 3
2025
Science is Wonderful!
✨ PlasmACT at Science is Wonderful! ✨
Our PlasmACT doctoral candidates had an incredible time at Science is Wonderful! 2025, sharing the exciting world of medical gas plasma with young, curious minds!
From interactive demonstrations to hands-on activities, our team engaged with hundreds of students, explaining how plasma technology is being explored for medical applications. Seeing their excitement as they learned about the science behind plasma was truly inspiring!
Outreach events like this highlight the importance of making cutting-edge research accessible and inspiring the next generation of scientists. A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth and to the organizers for hosting such a fantastic event!
Check out some of our favorite moments below! ⬇️
MAR 2
2025
Science is Wonderful!
✨🔬 Science is Wonderful! 2025 starts TOMORROW! 🔬✨
Are you ready for some plasma magic? 🧪⚡ Some of our HashtagPlasmACT researchers will be there, showing off the science of medical gas plasma with exciting, hands-on demonstrations!
👩🔬🧑🔬 Come find Pradeep Murugesan, Ritu Zende, Mac Veldhuizen, and Agnieszka Ossowska at booth 50 and discover how plasma can help in medicine—it’s science that looks like magic! 🎇
We can’t wait to share the wonders of plasma with you. See you there for some fun! ⚡😁
FEB 11
2025
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Today, on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate the incredible female researchers in PlasmACT who are driving innovation in plasma medicine!
🧪 From studying actinic keratosis treatments to understanding cellular and molecular responses, these women are shaping the future of skin health research. Their dedication to science is not just advancing knowledge—it’s paving the way for the next generation of female scientists.
At PlasmACT, we are proud to be a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) project, named after one of the most pioneering women in science—Marie Skłodowska-Curie. Her groundbreaking work in physics and chemistry paved the way for future generations of female scientists.
🔬 Tagging our brilliant researchers: Agnieszka Ossowska, Lauren McKeever, Ritu Zende, and Zengyu W.
🌟 Let’s continue to support, uplift, and empower women in STEM!
JAN 28
2025
PlasTHER Training School
✨ PlasmACT at the PlasTHER Training School! ✨
Last week, six of our eight PlasmACT doctoral candidates had the incredible opportunity to attend the 4th and final PlasTHER Training School in Štrbské Pleso, Slovakia, focused on “Bridging Science and Innovation: Translating Plasma Medicine into Clinic and to the Market.”
It was a fantastic week of learning, engaging discussions, and networking with fellow early-career researchers in plasma medicine. Each DC had the chance to present their research during dedicated poster sessions across three evenings—an exciting opportunity to share our work, gain valuable feedback, and exchange ideas with experts in the field.
A huge thank you to PlasTHER COST Action for organizing such a well-rounded and insightful event! We’re looking forward to applying what we’ve learned as we continue our research within PlasmACT.
Poster Presentations:
Agnieszka Ossowska – „Assessment of Biological Safety of a Novel Plasma Jet Device for the Treatment of Actinic Keratosis“
Lauren McKeever – „Exploring Medical Gas Plasma as a Novel Therapeutic Approach for Actinic Keratosis“
Pradeep Murugesan – „Multi-jet cold plasma for medical applications: physical and electrical characterization, optimization and safety assessment“
Ritu Zende – „Study and optimization of a plasma jet device interacting with biological tissues for medical applications“
Sidharth – „Characterization of Non thermal atmospheric Plasma Jet using Emission Spectroscopy“
Zengyu W. – „Oxidation-driven processes in human keratinocytes analyzed by mass spectrometry
FEB 4
2025
World Cancer Day
🟠 World Cancer Day 2025 🟠
Today, on HashtagWorldCancerDay, we stand with researchers, healthcare professionals, and patients worldwide in the fight against cancer. We understand the importance of advancing research to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
At PlasmACT, our research focuses on actinic keratosis (AK) – condition often referred to as squamous cell carcinoma in situ. If left untreated, AK has the potential to develop into cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, a type of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Our project is exploring the potential of medical gas plasma as an innovative therapeutic approach for AK, investigating its effects at the cellular and molecular levels. By deepening our understanding of AK progression and treatment, we contribute to the broader mission of reducing the global cancer burden.
🔬 Together, through science and collaboration, we can take action against cancer.
JAN 19
2025
Goodby and Good Luck
🌟 A Heartfelt Thank You and Best Wishes! 🌟
As we approach a new chapter for the HashtagPlasmACT project, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to Diana Albrecht. Your hard work, dedication, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in ensuring everything ran smoothly throughout the project. From managing complex tasks to keeping everything organized and on track, you’ve been a cornerstone of our team.
While we will greatly miss your support, we are excited for you as you take on a new role at the Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs in Schwerin. We have no doubt you’ll thrive in this exciting opportunity, and we wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
We’d also like to extend a warm thank you to Kristian Wende, who has been a valued member of PlasmACT as DC1’s supervisor and will now take on the role of administrative coordinator. We are confident that his expertise and commitment will ensure a seamless transition and continued success for the project.
Here’s to celebrating the past and looking forward to the future! 🚀
