N4 links regional nanoscience and nanotechnology efforts
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The Northwest Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Network--or N4--is magnifying communication about nano-related research in the Pacific Northwest region.
N4 was formed in the summer of 2003. "We wanted to link together the researchers, educators, organizations and industries that are leading a variety of activities in this emerging field of inquiry," said Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Don Baer, who headed efforts to organize the group. "Many regional universities, laboratories and industries have leading positions in nanoscience and nanotechnology, or have identified important aspects of these fields that are especially relevant to the Northwest," he added.
The primary objectives of N4 are to foster communication among the region's participants in nanoscience and nanotechnology research; enhance the formation of research teams; and identify capabilities, skills and activities for collaboration with network partners. An additional aim is to create improved public awareness of successful nano-related research activities taking place in the Northwest.
The N4 concept is an outgrowth of the Joint Institute for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, which was established by PNNL and the University of Washington in April 2001. Interest in the network has been significant. By November 2003, six institutions and 25 individuals had joined, and the numbers continue to grow.
In the months ahead, steps will be taken to advance the network's effectiveness. For instance, PNNL will establish a secure Web site that will allow network members to privately interact and share their work. A Web site offering public information already is online, at http://www.pnl.gov/NWnano/.