nanotecnology

Career in Nanotechnology

Career in Nanotechnology is another up and coming industries that is poised to take the world up to another level of technological breakthrough. What exactly is Nanotechnology? A nanometer is 1 billionth of a meter. As a comparison, the human hair is approximately 75,000 nm in thickness.

The United States ' National Nanotechnology Initiative website defines it as follows: "Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at dimensions of roughly 1 to 100 nanometers, where unique phenomena enable novel applications."We will not be able to see all the processes with our naked eye. The use of machines to aid one to see what's happening is a basic in this field. This technology combines the knowledge of chemistry, biology and engineering as its primary core research.

Nanotechnology deals with the research and applications of objects that are measured in nm. Any object that we see consists of atoms and molecules joined together by atomic or molecular forces. When one is able to manipulate these atoms individually and putting them together using machines that are in the size of nm, then a product will begin to take shape. It is just like making a puzzle piece or LEGO of which you can make different shapes of objects by varying the way you place them together. A real life example is that if we take the atoms of coal and rearrange them, we can make a diamond out of it. That is how powerful this technology is.

The challenges of this technology is that one need to develop nano level machines to grab a single atom and move them to another position. Similarly, hugh nano level assembly machines need to be developed to enable the assembly of these atoms and molecules together. It has to be fast because a product can consist of trillions of atoms. This calls for the invention of replicators that will replicate these assembly machines at a fast rate.

What qualifications do Nanotechnologists need?

Nanotechnologists need a minimum of a Masters level of education. They need creativity, an aptitude for analysis and problem-solving and strong skills in mathematics, science and computing. Nanotechnologists conduct research and need to be able to visualize and explain ideas clearly. They need to be able to work independently and work well with a multidisciplinary team. Excellent laboratory skills and attention to detail are essential.

What areas of study do Nanotechnologists include in their coursework?

A solid base in science is fundamental. Because of the multidisciplinary aspects of this emerging science, undergraduate training in physics, biochemistry, biology, chemistry or mathematics may each provide appropriate background. The potential for health applications of nanotechnology suggests a medical background may also be appropriate.

What areas of specialization may Nanotechnologists choose?

Advanced degrees are still developing for this highly specialized yet multi-disciplinary field of study. Emerging areas are Nanotechnology law and investing and business. Consulting and Research and Development are significant areas of emphasis. Other specialties focus on modeling and simulation that includes computational nanotechnology, computational nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, and modeling of processes encountered in nanofabrication. New measurements and standards for Nanotechnology will be needed to convert basic research into applied technologies, products and services with broad affects on economies, global society, and individual lives.