Nanotechnology Research – Initiatives, Networks & Associations

The UK MNT Network has been established by the DTI and the 12 Regional Development Agencies and Devolved Administrations working together, to provide a market-oriented focus for the facilities, people and organisations engaged in Micro and Nanotechnologies in the UK. As of April 2007 the MNT network has been rebranded the 'Nanotechnology KTN' network.

The Division of Microrobotics and Control Engineering (AMiR) has wide experience in joint research projects within international and German research programs related to versatile micro- and nanorobotics as well as to automated nanohandling and nanocharacterization. Most of the projects have been initiated and coordinated by AMiR, which clearly underlines the relevance of AMiR's contribution to the international research activities on these topics.

CAMCOR is a full-service, comprehensive materials characterization center available to research institutions and private industry. The CAMCOR facilities provide enabling infrastructure for research in chemistry, nanoscience, materials science, bioscience, and optics.

The Nanotechnology Taskforce has been convened by the University of Surrey to encourage open and well-informed public debate about the use and the potential of nanotechnology in the UK. The Task Force aims to promote the economic, social and environmental benefits of nanotechnology, while addressing concerns about safety and ethical issues.

The student-run Nanoclub aims to promote nanotechnology at the University of Toronto.

The IPSE program is at the cutting-edge of museum-university collaborations. The goals of the IPSE program are to: Educate the public and student populations about nanoscale technology through hands-on, interactive activities. IPSE offers a wide variety of nanotechnology education opportunities such as workshops to educators and often give demonstrations at museums and science fairs.

The Initiative on Nanotechnology and Society at the University of Wisconsin- Madison is an umbrella program, jointly sponsored by the nanoscience and engineering and social science faculties at UW-Madison, the initiative supports a range of programs and interdisciplinary research projects that explore societal, ethical, legal, policy, economic, and security issues surrounding nanotechnology.

Nanotechnology has both applications and implications for the environment. EPA is supporting research in this technology while evaluating its regulatory responsibility to protect the environment and human health. This site highlights EPA's research in nanotechnology and provides useful information on related research at EPA and in other organizations.