About PAULINE

The PAULINE project aims to explore the potential for an underground laboratory in South Africa’s Huguenot Tunnel, focusing on cutting-edge research in astroparticle physics, dark matter, and neutrino studies. By developing a facility similar to existing labs in the northern hemisphere, such as the one in Modane, France, PAULINE seeks to contribute to global scientific understanding and foster international collaboration.

This initiative is supported by seed funding from South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and Stellenbosch University, and includes partnerships with both local and international scientists. The project is coordinated by a research scientist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and a fellow of the African Academy of Sciences, highlighting the project's strong ties to both Europe and Africa.

PAULINE also aligns with global research standards and open science principles, recognizing the importance of engaging with local communities and adhering to UNESCO's recommendations for responsible and inclusive science. Our goal is not only to advance scientific knowledge but also to work alongside community stakeholders and experts in various fields to ensure the project benefits everyone. We are committed to dialogue, transparency, and collaboration, ensuring that the interests and concerns of the local population are heard and respected throughout the project's development.

Working closely with African institutions to address global challenges and develop local scientific capacity.

• SU Stellenbosch University, ZA: Shaun Wyngaardt
• UWC University of the Western Cape, ZA: Robert Lindsay
• UCT University of Cape Town, ZA: Andy Buffler
• Wits University of the Witwatersrand, ZA: Andrew Chen
• UNISA The University of South Africa, ZA: Mantile Lekala
• NWU North West University, ZA: Markus Bottcher
• iThemba LABS, ZA: Peane Maleka
• BIUST The Botswana International University of Science and Technology, BW: Gregory Hillhouse
• UMV Université Mohammed V, Rabat, MA: Yahya Talayati

European institutions supporting the development of PAULINE are committed to scientific innovation and global collaboration.

• IJCLab Orsay, FR: Xavier Bertou
• IP2I Lyon, FR: Jacques Marteau
• LP2I Bordeaux, FR: Fabrice Piquemal
• LPSC Grenoble-Modane, FR: Fairouz Malek
• LPNHE Paris, FR: Lydia Roos, Luca Scotto Lavina
• LPCCA Clermont Ferrand, FR: Vincent Breton
• LNGS Laboratoire National du Gran Sasso, IT: Marcello Messina
• LSC Laboratorio Subterráneo de Canfranc, SP: Carlos Peña Garay