Quick Takeaways
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Transformational Potential of Nanoscale Innovation: MIT.nano Director Vladimir Bulović emphasized the vast opportunities in nanoscale research to fundamentally change the world during the inaugural Nano Summit, which celebrated the fifth anniversary of MIT.nano and attracted over 475 participants.
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Advanced Tools and Research Capacity: Since its opening in 2018, MIT.nano has provided nearly 170 advanced tools to over 1,200 trained researchers from more than 300 labs, driving significant developments in quantum science, materials, advanced electronics, energy, and biology.
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Collaboration Between Academia and Industry: The Summit highlighted the importance of collaboration between MIT faculty and industry partners, focusing on efficient tech transfer and the commercialization of innovations, particularly in semiconductors and quantum computing.
- Interdisciplinary Exploration and Art: The event featured various sessions on topics ranging from advanced microscopy to immersive data technologies, culminating in an art exhibition where students creatively utilized MIT.nano’s resources, symbolizing the intersection of science and culture.
MIT.nano Celebrates Five Years of Nanoscale Innovation
MIT.nano marked its fifth anniversary with the inaugural Nano Summit on Oct. 24. The summit attracted over 325 in-person attendees and 150 virtual participants. Director Vladimir Bulović opened the event by emphasizing the potential of nanoscale innovation. "Where are we heading? And what is the next big thing we can develop?" he asked. His vision centers on using these innovations to transform the world positively.
MIT.nano has evolved since its inception. The building process, which began in 2015, was akin to assembling a ship in a bottle. By October 2018, MIT.nano opened its doors at the heart of the campus. Now, it houses nearly 170 tools and serves over 1,200 trained researchers from various MIT departments and external organizations. Notably, in 2022, Building 12 was named in honor of AMD CEO Lisa T. Su.
The Nano Summit featured six sessions on quantum science, materials, energy, and biology. Frances Ross, a materials science professor, highlighted the need for innovative materials. She stated that advanced electron microscopy will unlock new understandings. This sentiment resonated throughout the event.
Biology experts underlined the significance of high-resolution imaging in biological research. “Cryo-electron microscopy (CryoEM) is essential," said Thomas Schwartz, a biology professor. His colleagues echoed this, praising the advanced tools at MIT.nano that enable detailed exploration of biological structures.
The summit also focused on energy transformation. Chemistry professor Yogi Surendranath explained how his research aims to convert carbon dioxide into fuel using renewable electricity. He credited MIT.nano for its critical role in understanding nanostructures.
Meanwhile, the “Advanced Electronics” session fostered discussion between faculty and industry partners. Jesús del Alamo, a professor in electrical engineering, stressed the importance of translating innovations to the marketplace. This collaboration will bolster the future of the semiconductor industry.
Moreover, the summit showcased START.nano. Eleven startups presented their technologies, highlighting MIT.nano’s support in bridging gaps between research and commercialization. Aram Harrow, a physics professor, addressed challenges in quantum computing, noting that innovative environments like MIT.nano are vital for problem-solving.
The event concluded with a reception where attendees explored the facility and admired an art exhibition. Students from MIT’s Program in Art, Culture, and Technology created works inspired by MIT.nano’s environments.
Bulović expressed gratitude to the community supporting MIT.nano. He affirmed its role as a cornerstone of MIT’s mission in research and education. The celebration underscored MIT.nano’s commitment to driving innovation in technology and science. As it moves forward, MIT.nano continues to inspire and facilitate breakthroughs in the nanoscale realm.
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https://news.mit.edu/2023/celebrating-five-years-mit-nano-summit-1127
