ICN2 – Catalan Institut of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology – Ficha de Socio

Actividad:RI&D

Organismo:

• Otro

Breve descripción

The Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2) is a private foundation with the objective of becoming a world-renowned centre for nanoscience and nanotechnology research. Its patrons are the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), the Government of Catalonia (UAB) and the Autonomous University of Barcelona. It is part of CERCA, the network of Research Centres launched by the Catalan Government as a cornerstone of its long-term strategy to foster development of a knowledge-based economy.

ICN2's research lines focus on the newly discovered physical and chemical properties that arise from the fascinating behaviour of matter at the nanoscale.

Much of our work is devoted to studying and understanding fundamental physical phenomena associated to state variables as regards electrons, phonons, photons, plasmons, etc.; investigating new properties derived from tailored nanostructures; and establishing new processes for the conception and fabrication of new nanodevices.

This work enables functionalisation of nanoparticles, encapsulation of active agents and creation of new nanodevices and nanosensors, through frontier science that has direct implications for various sectors (health, food, energy, the environment, etc.).

Recognising that nanotechnology is an interdisciplinary arena, the Institute actively promotes collaboration among scientists from diverse backgrounds (physics, chemistry, biology, engineering), seeking to integrate their knowledge to complete its mission.

The Institute also trains researchers in nanotechnology, offering studentships as well as doctoral and post-doctoral positions. We also provide custom training courses for technicians and R&D personnel at private companies and other research institutes.

As part of our effort to facilitate the uptake of nanotechnology in industry, ICN2 holds seminars and workshops to unite scientists, engineers, technicians, business people and policy makers. We disseminate our research results in the media and provide public forums on general nanotechnology information and on our work.

Although young, ICN2 has already experienced success in directly transferring its patented technologies to industry: we have launched one start-up company, are currently evaluating two more and are now pursuing numerous commercial contracts. The Institute is actively seeking new commercialisation partners for myriad early stage technologies.