The PPSM is a chemical laboratory, in which molecules are synthesized and (nano)materials are made, but for very specific applications which run from biology (anti-cancer molecules or sensors used in biological processes) to physics (the study of the optical properties of individual nano-objects, making of captors). Photophysics and electrochemistry are two internationally recognised domains of expertise of the PPSM, which fit in particularly well with the problematic of interface and have recently developed towards uses that have nothing to do with their historic setting. The development of microfluidic activity at the PPSM should also be mentioned. This has allowed the integration of fluorescent molecules sensitive to the presence of analytes such as organic contaminants or heavy metals, in mechanisms active in fieldwork. This activity has in turn brought about a closer relationship with the SATIE laboratory.

The PPSM should manage to survive at the Saclay base as long as it manages to maintain its identity whilst taking advantage of the scientific infrastructure and environment on offer. The identity of the PPSM is to go from the molecule to the mechanism, to create functional materials and to study their properties, notably optical, to a very advanced degree thanks to the cutting edge instrumental platforms. Working relationships already exist with certain partners from the base (Ecole Centrale, Ecole Polytechnique or Université Paris 11), notably within the framework of the recent emergence of the Labex CHARMMMAT and NanoSaclay, which the geographical nearness should strengthen. In the context, the IdA must play a key role in order to ensure the multi-disciplinary projects can develop on the scale of the new Université Paris-Saclay. For the time being, we are witnessing a structuring of disciplinary departments of this university, even if the interfaces are not being ignored. There is more than enough place left for a truly multidisciplinary structure such as the Institute on the scale of a whole new entity.

The enhanced value of research work is a goal, even though unpredictable, but also requires a huge investment. It is therefore appreciated that laboratory researchers, whose primary mission is above all to spend time creating new objects and understanding how they function on a basic level, can obtain the necessary support in advance of receiving the enhanced value. Very often, researchers are put off by the admin required or the lack of contact with the companies that could make their discovery more productive. A favourable coming together of events is often necessary in order that the development goes beyond the application for a patent, as was the case in the laboratory Lumicyano. If a more systematic detection of such potential is undertaken, together with the creation of a network of potentially interested industrial partners, it can only benefit our laboratory researchers. It remains to be seen at work...