Nanotechnologies can revolutionise society. They offer the potential of disruptive step changes in electronic materials, optics, computing, and in the application of physical and chemical understanding (in combination with biology) to generate novel and innovative self-assembled systems. The field is maturing rapidly, with a trend towards ever more complex, integrated nanosystems and structures. It is estimated that by 2015 products incorporating nanotechnology will contribute US$1 trillion to the global economy, and that the UK has a 10 per cent share of the current market.
To focus the UK research effort we will work through a series of Grand Challenges. These will be developed in conjunction with researchers and users in areas of societal importance such as energy, environmental remediation, the digital economy, and healthcare. An interdisciplinary, stage-gate approach spanning basic research through to application will be used. This will include studies on risk governance, economics, and social implications. The challenges will be addressed via interdisciplinary consortia supported jointly by EPSRC, BBSRC, ESRC, MRC, NERC, and STFC, and the Technology Strategy Board. The Councils will also work with the cross-Government Nanotechnology Research Coordination Group to respond to the Royal Society/Royal Academy of Engineering report on Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies.
For more information please visit: www.rcuk.ac.uk/nano