About

Project Facts

Project name — Innovative high-sensitivity avalanche field-effect transistors designed for cancer diagnosis

Acronym: HSAFE

Project number: 101232577

Call: HORIZON-MSCA-2024-SE-01

Starting/Ending date: 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2029

Budget: € 1 618 230,00

Project Summary

The HSAFE project aims to revolutionize early cancer detection by developing an ultra-sensitive biosensor for identifying lymphoma and lung cancers at their earliest stages. Today, these diseases are often diagnosed too late, when treatment is less effective and patient outcomes are poorer. By integrating avalanche transistor electronics, smart transducer materials, and nanoparticle (Au-NP) enhancements, the project seeks to create a device capable of detecting tiny traces of cancer-related miRNA biomarkers far earlier than current technologies allow. With reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and MoS₂ layers designed for high biomarker affinity, the biosensor aspires to set a new standard in accuracy, speed, and reliability for non-invasive cancer diagnostics.

The vision behind HSAFE is to deliver a tool that is not only scientifically advanced but also portable, cost-effective, and widely accessible. If successful, the biosensor could enable earlier intervention, more precise monitoring of disease progression, and pave the way for personalized treatment strategies that improve survival rates and quality of life. In doing so, HSAFE aligns with Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and the broader goals of the European Health Union, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to boosting early detection and ensuring equitable access to healthcare innovation.

Spearheaded by a consortium of leading European universities, research institutions, and SMEs—together with partners from Associated and Partner Countries—the project brings together expertise in semiconductors, nanomaterials, biomedical engineering, and oncology. This collaboration is designed to move the technology from concept to prototype while adhering to the highest European regulatory standards. By building strong foundations for future large-scale health initiatives under Horizon Europe and EU4Health, HSAFE aims to position Europe at the forefront of medical diagnostics and contribute to global efforts to transform cancer care.

Project Structure

Work package WP1 – Innovative Biosensor Design

Task 1.1 Modelling of the HSAFE design parameters for production.
Task 1.2 Design and development of the production roadmap: MASK set and RUN card preparation.

Work package WP2 – Single HSAFE Transistors Production and Sensitive Layer Preparation

Task 2.1 Elaboration of the HSAFE single transistors.
Task 2.2 Elaboration of the sensitive layer.

Work package WP3 – Prototype of Read‑out Electronics for Biosensors

Task 3.1 Electronic circuit elaboration.
Task 3.2 Circuit board assembling and electronic programming.
Task 3.3 Hardware‑to‑software integration.

Work package WP4 – Software Development and Data Collection

Task 4.1 Software development.
Task 4.2 Definition of data product format.

Work package WP5 – Determination of the Performance Parameters of the Innovative Set of Detectors

Task 5.1 Prototype elaboration.
Task 5.2 Patent preparation and application.

Work package WP6 – Management

Task 6.1 Project Management Plan.
Task 6.2 Dissemination and Communication Plans.
Task 6.3 Exploitation Plan.

Deliverables

D1.1 – Protocol on the AFET‑biosensors design for manufacturing
D2.1 – AFET transistor: Protocol on working parameters
D3.1 – Protocol on development of electronic board
D4.1 – Protocol on development of software
D5.1 – Prototype biosensor based on FET avalanche transistor
D5.2 – Patent application
D6.1 – Data Management Plan
D6.2 – Dissemination, Communication, and Exploitation Plans
D6.3 – 1st Progress Report
D6.4 – Mid‑term Meeting

Milestones

• Kick‑off meeting
• Summer School