Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is the science of materials at nanometer length scales. Innovations in this highly interdisciplinary field are blurring the boundaries of traditional research in medicine, information technology, energy, biotechnology, electronics, and much more. The US is committed to being the world leader in the emerging fields of nanoscale science, engineering and technology. Federal research funding to support fundamental research in nanoscience has tripled since 2001 to $1.5 billion in 2008.
The State of Utah has also recognized the importance of nanotechnology in its economic future. The state-funded Utah Science, Technology, and Research (USTAR) initiative is helping the U to recruit world-class researchers in targeted areas, several of which have nanotechnology as core components, to build state-of-the-art interdisciplinary research and development facilities, and to commercialize breakthroughs originating from nanoscience research.
With the help of USTAR and other private donors, the University is advancing its national stature in nanoscience. Renowned investigators in chemistry, physics, materials science, engineering, medicine, pharmacy, and electronics lead cutting-edge research in nanotherapeutics and imaging, nanoscale sensing, nanofluidics, nanosynthesis and nanophotonics, to name a few. Recent faculty hires bring new nanoscience expertise and facilities to Utah in the fields of nanobiotechnology, nanomedicine, and nanobiosensors. Utah has the resources in place to capitalize on the opportunities in nanotechnology research markets, and to make important contributions to federal and state initiatives.
The University of Utah is about to take a quantum step in nano-scale research with the construction of a 20,000 square-foot nanofabrication facility in the new USTAR building that will provide a clean room for fabricating and characterizing electronic devices and mechanical structures. The goal is to create safe, functional, adaptable space to encourage the interaction of students and scientists from disciplines across campus, and throughout the intermountain region.
For more information about how you can support nanotechnology programs at the University of Utah, please contact Marilyn Davies at (801) 581-7194 or mdavies@coe.utah.edu.
