"The researcher Dr. Gavin J. Seal will investigate the theory of lax algebras in the context of homotopy theory. His work will be conducted at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, in Switzerland, in collaboration with Prof. Kathryn Hess Bellwald and her research group. Based on the most recent developments in category theory, lax algebras allow a unified approach to the main fundamental structures of topology. The project will contribute to the advancement of the theory of lax algebras by exploiting its links with categorical homotopy theory: the theory of locales, higher-dimensional category theory, model theory, convergence theory, descent theory, etc. In return, the abstraction allowed by lax algebras will provide a reference point for the development of generalizations of homotopy theories, ranging from metric to uniform interpretations. The researcher's original, independent, and successful research career, as well as the high quality of his host at the host institute, all contribute to the success of the project. The researcher's international professional network, as well as his expertise, will provide the European Union with a crucial mathematical asset."