Nanotechnology Research Laboratories

Research in the Glotzer group focuses on understanding why and how ordered structures emerge in otherwise disordered soft materials and nanoscale systems -- and how to design and control novel, functional structures from nanoscale building blocks using unconventional methods. Our tools for discovery include molecular, mesoscale, and multiscale computer simulations.

The LNF is available, on a fee basis, for use by research groups from government, industry and universities. Equipment and processes are available for research on silicon integrated circuits, MEMS, III-V compound devices, organic devices and nanoimprint technology.

The group's research deals with nanostructures and nanostructured materials. They seek to expand the science of how to synthesize these materials and engineer their fundamental properties; to create new technology to realize the related chemical, mechanical, and thermal assembly processes; and to pioneer applications which harness the unique properties of nanostructures at small and large scales.

The laboratory focuses on understanding cell function through the development and use of novel micro-, nano-, and molecular-scale technologies.

Researching single molecule biophysics.

Dealing with nanoscale thermal transport.

The MNF is one of the leading centers worldwide on micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) and microsystems. It provides facilities and processes for the integration of Si integrated circuits and MEMS with nanotechnology, with applications in biology, medical systems, chemistry, and environmental monitoring.

The Center for Nanostructure Applications is a focal point for nanotechnology at the University of Minnesota. It's a place where you will be able to find information about faculty engaged in University of Minnesota-specific information such as nano-related research and workshops, as well as announcements on nano related news, calls for proposals, conferences, and other regional and national events.

Funded through the NSF Integrative Graduate Education and Traineeship (IGERT) program

The Center for Spintronic Materials, Interfaces, and Novel Architectures (C-SPIN) is a multi-university research center that will bring together top researchers from across the nation to develop technologies for spin-based computing and memory systems. Unlike today's computers, which function on the basis of electrical charges moving across wires, the emerging spin-based computing systems will process and store information through spin, a fundamental property of electrons. Spin-based logic and memory have the potential to create computers that are smaller, faster and more energy-efficient than conventional charge-based systems. Research conducted by C-SPIN will also have an impact beyond the world of computer science through advances in materials science, chemistry, circuit design, nanotechnology, and many other fields.