From June 3 to 19, 2025, a group of researchers from Lviv Polytechnic National University (LPNU) carried out short-term training visits to the University of Glasgow (UoG) within the framework of the Horizon Europe project HELIOS. The exchanges took place under Task 2.2, which targets Experienced Researchers (ERs), and Task 4.2, which involves Early Stage Researchers (ESRs). These activities were designed to enhance scientific collaboration, strengthen research capacity, and support the development of new organic white-light-emitting materials through joint training and knowledge transfer.

Within Task 2.2, the participating ERs from LPNU –  Prof. Iryna Yaremchuk, Dr. Nazariy Andrushchak, and Dr. Tetiana Bulaviinets – were involved in a series of technical exchanges focused on material synthesis and purification methods. During their stay at the University of Glasgow, they engaged in intensive laboratory sessions and collaborative discussions addressing synthetic strategies for organic compounds, particularly reactions involving both conventional heating and microwave-assisted synthesis. An important component of this exchange was the sharing of advanced purification techniques, including the use of preparative recycling gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which plays a critical role in obtaining high-purity materials for optoelectronic applications. At the same time, the LPNU team explored the host institution’s ongoing work in molecular structure design for efficient emissive triplet harvesting, specifically focusing on room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF).

In parallel, under Task 4.2, three Early Stage Researchers from LPNU – Liliia Deva, Bohdan Bulavinets, and Dr. Serhii Melnykov – participated in an exchange programme that concentrated on the fabrication and integration of composite materials for use in organic light-emitting devices. Their training at the University of Glasgow included preparation of materials based on emissive compounds embedded in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and photocurable media, such as CHDV. The work built upon their earlier experience with functionalisation of materials using cinnamate groups, deepening their understanding of processing techniques that improve the mechanical and photonic properties of light-emitting films. The ESRs benefited from access to UoG’s research infrastructure and gained valuable exposure to international research environments, methodologies, and project management practices.

These training exchanges significantly contributed to the development of technical expertise within the HELIOS consortium. The experience not only reinforced scientific competencies at the individual level but also laid the foundation for deeper institutional cooperation between LPNU and UoG. The participants reported an increased understanding of cross-disciplinary approaches and a stronger alignment with the project’s scientific goals. Moreover, the collaboration fostered by the exchanges will support further joint activities in the context of HELIOS and beyond, including joint publications, experimental planning, and the preparation of follow-up initiatives within the Horizon Europe framework.

The HELIOS coordination team expresses its gratitude to the University of Glasgow for hosting the LPNU delegation and for facilitating a constructive and impactful exchange programme. These visits mark an important step in building a sustainable partnership that contributes to excellence in European research and innovation.