The National
Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) is a federal R&D program established
to coordinate the multiagency efforts in nanoscale science, engineering,
and technology.
The
goals of the NNI are to:
1. conduct R&D to realize
the full potential of this revolutionary technology;
2. develop the skilled workforce
and supporting infrastructure needed
to advance R&D;
3. better understand the
social, ethical, health, and
environmental implications
of the technology; and,
4. facilitate transfer of
the new technologies into commercial
products.
|
Eighteen federal
agencies participate in the Initiative, 10 of which have an R&D
budget for nanotechnology. Other Federal organizations contribute
with studies, applications of the results from those agencies performing
R&D, and other collaborations. (See
NNI Participants and NNI Structure
and Strategies)
The NNI is managed within the framework of the National
Science and Technology Council (NSTC), whose members—appointed
by the President—
are leaders in industry, academia and government. The Nanoscale
Science Engineering and Technology (NSET) Subcommittee of the NSTC
coordinates planning, budgeting, program implementation and review
to ensure a balanced and comprehensive initiative. The NSET
Subcommittee is composed of representatives from agencies participating
in the NNI.
In addition to funding research, federal support through the NNI
provides crucial funds for the creation of university and government
nanoscale R&D laboratories, and helps educate the workforce
necessary for the future of nanotechnology. The NNI also plays a
key role in fostering cross-disciplinary networks and partnerships,
and disseminating information. Finally, it enables small businesses
to pursue opportunities offered by nanotechnology, and encourages
all levels of business to exploit those opportunities.
While
it can be difficult to assess the achievements for long-term research,
such as that in nanoscience, significant discoveries are being reported
regularly from the federally funded programs. Recent achievements
in nanotechnology funded in whole or in part by the National Nanotechnology
Initiative:·
|