The Metasoft Matter program

Université PSL's Major Research programs

Université PSL's Major Research programs are multi-year initiatives that bring together laboratories and disciplines to tackle major scientific and societal challenges.
Selected for the 2025–2029 period, there are 14 programs in total, involving more than 1,000 researchers and supported by a dedicated budget of €36 million.

Each program runs for five years, is led by an interdisciplinary team, and aims to strengthen PSL’s international visibility, foster collaboration, and support innovation.
 

Metasoft Matter: Pushing the boundaries of soft matter

Within this framework, the Metasoft Matter Major Program aims to push the boundaries of soft matter science. By combining expertise in soft materials, metamaterials, soft robotics, and design, the program explores innovative solutions to future technological and environmental challenges.
 

A program led by ESPCI Paris - PSL

Renowned for its leadership in physics and materials engineering, ESPCI Paris - PSL plays a central role in Metasoft. The program relies on a unique interdisciplinary network and is structured around three main research axes:

• The soft robots of tomorrow

Inventing innovative devices with biomedical, industrial, and environmental applications through the convergence of soft materials, metamaterials, and robotics.

• Complex fluids and amorphous solids

Improving our understanding of their behaviors to address major scientific and industrial challenges.

• Environmental challenges

Exploring disruptive strategies to complement current efforts in recycling, water management, and CO₂ valorization.

Through Metasoft Matter, PSL reinforces its role as a key driver of scientific and technological innovation, paving the way for major advances in the field of soft matter.