Key research themes
1. What are the key fabrication and machining techniques enabling micro and nano scale manufacturing?
This theme addresses the fundamental fabrication methods used to achieve structures and devices at micro and nano scales. It matters because precision at these scales is essential for the development of nanoelectronics, nanomechanical systems, and other nanodevices whose performance depends critically on dimensional accuracy, surface properties, and material integrity.
2. How is nanotechnology advancing microelectronics and optoelectronics through quantum and nanoscale device design?
This theme explores the exploitation of quantum phenomena and nanoscale structures in semiconductor materials to innovate new devices for microelectronics and optoelectronics. It matters because the continued miniaturization enabled by nanotechnology directly addresses limitations of classical scaling and unlocks novel functionalities such as quantum transport, resonant tunneling, and enhanced optical properties essential for future information technologies.
3. What are the current trends and challenges in transitioning nanotechnology from laboratory research to industry and commercialization?
This theme investigates the pathway from nanotechnology research breakthroughs to market-ready products, including patenting, industrial investment, global competitiveness, and ethical considerations. Understanding these factors is crucial to realizing nanotechnology's societal and economic impact, especially as nanomaterials, devices, and manufacturing mature into commercial applications.