Astrophysical and cosmological observations imply that only 5% of the energy of the Universe is made of conventional matter. The rest is composed by a new type of matter, the so-called dark matter, which has no (or extremely weak) interactions with the known particles, and a yet more puzzling repulsive form of energy accelerating the universe's expansion (dark energy). Advancing our knowledge on the nature of this dark universe is the focus of a global multidisciplinary effort in astroparticle physics. Indeed, solving these puzzles have been identified as a priority for the future of particle physics and cosmology by several scientific agencies worldwide.

In this context, UNDARK’s main objective is to transform the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) into a world-class institution in astroparticle physics. This will be accomplished by leveraging IAC's expertise in astronomy and astrophysics with the excellence and theoretical expertise provided by the world’s leading particle physics laboratory (CERN), and three renowned EU institutions in astroparticle physics. UNDARK's work plan includes an ambitious program of networking, scientific events, staff exchanges and scientific collaborations that will significantly enhance the IAC's research capacity and creativity, and will increase its reputation within the EU and global R&I systems. This will be complemented by an extensive outreach program developed in parallel which aims to boost the recognition of the IAC within the general public and public funding bodies. Finally, UNDARK also incorporates training activities focused on research management to increase the management capacity of the IAC and its involvement in the Horizon Europe funding program.

In summary, UNDARK has been designed with the goal of achieving excellence at the Widening coordinator in a priority area of fundamental physics research, thereby addressing one of the most significant challenges in contemporary physics.