Hosted at the “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi, Romania, this training school is tailored for students and early-career researchers new to the field of ionic liquids (IL) and deep eutectic solvents (DES), with a particular emphasis on their applications as confined solvents. The school is also open to researchers experienced with these substances who are interested in utilizing modern molecular modeling techniques for studying ILs and DESs in confined environments, such as at surfaces.

The program aims to provide participants with a structured introduction to the fundamentals and advanced aspects of polymers, ionic liquid and deep eutectic solvents research, combining simulation and experimental perspectives. Lectures from renowned experts will cover core theoretical concepts, alongside methods for simulation and experimental investigation of ionic liquids. Topics will range from introductory to advanced, supplemented by hands-on tutorials, exercises, and computer simulations to encourage active learning and skill development.

Highlights of the program:

• Introductory to Advanced Courses: Covering theoretical, simulation, and experimental methods in IL and DES research.
• Practical Sessions: Tutorials, exercises, and simulations to reinforce learning.
• Expert Seminars: Featuring scientists with expertise in complex liquids under confinement, sharing insights into practical applications.
• Poster Session: An opportunity for the most engaged participants to present their work and receive feedback.
• Publication Opportunity: Participants will have the chance to publish their findings in the Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute from Iași, an open-access journal (https://sciendo.com/journal/BIPMF)

The COST Action COSY aims to provide a computationally and experimentally sound foundation for the fundamental understanding and control of confined molecular systems. The resulting outcome will be translated into useful knowledge forming the basis for applications. These range from creating a new generation of materials including biomaterials, with immediate transfer to industry, to disclosing the chemistry occurring in space. To this end, COSY will combine new cutting-edge experimental techniques for the synthesis of novel nanomaterials and high-resolution characterization thereof, with state-of-the-art first principles modelling. The most advanced methods for molecular motion as well as modern artificial intelligence, machine learning technologies, and big data science will be applied.

COSY COST Action coordinators: María Pilar de Lara-Castells (Chair), Cristina Puzzarini (Vice Chair)