The Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN), an academic collaboration between UNCG and NC A&T, is one of the 16 programs across the nation to receive funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to drive innovation in nanoscale science, engineering and technology.
JSNN has teamed up with Georgia Tech to create the Southeastern Nanotechnology Infrastructure Corridor (SENIC), a partnership that will receive $8 million over five years. JSNN will receive $1,8 million, allowing companies and organizations to use JSNN facilities, tools, and resources to test and develop technology through the fabrication of nanostructures.
NSF will provide a total of $81 million in funding over the next five years to support the 16 sites and a coordinating office as part of a new National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure (NNCI).
“Collaboration and shared infrastructure are integral to JSNN’s operating model,” said Dr. James Ryan, founding dean of the JSNN. “The NNCI will help JSNN to expand our partnerships and leverage our state-of-the-art capabilities for research and economic development.”
The partnership is the first of its kind between JSNN and Georgia Tech. According to Dr. Daniel Herr, professor and nanoscience department chair, the vision behind SENIC was very strategic.
“We designed this collaboration to align with the needs of the regional industries, including agriculture, aerospace, energy and health care. Between JSNN and Georgia Tech, we have the capabilities to service the rapidly growing needs of the Southeast.”
The funding will also provide additional resources for community outreach and education. Launched this year, the JSNN “NanoBus” visits schools across the community, providing hands-on nanotechnology education and promoting the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields. JSNN also works closely with the area’s community colleges through academic outreach and workforce training.
To learn more about JSNN and its facilities and resources, visit JSNN.
Story by Alyssa Bedrosian, University Relations
Reposted from UNCG News and Features