National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST-Dept. of Commerce)

NIST's mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life.  Nanotechnology is an important component of NIST’s mission—from leading cutting-edge research to coordinating the development of standards that promote trade, NIST’s programs in nanotechnology directly impact priorities important to the nation’s economy and well-being.  http://www.nist.gov/index.html

FY 2011 Proposed $108 Million
FY 2010 Estimated $114.4 Million

NIST nanotechnology research develops measurements, standards, and data crucial to a wide range of industries and Federal agencies. NIST labs develop advanced spectroscopic methods needed to increase efficiency in advanced photovoltaics, and the standard reference materials and data necessary to accurately quantify and measure the presence and impact of nanomaterials in the environment. NIST created the Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology (CNST) to help move nanotechnology from the laboratory to the marketplace.  The CNST creates the next generation of nanoscale measurement instruments, makes them available through collaboration, and provides rapid access to a world-class, shared-use nanofabrication facility, the NanoFab. NIST’s Technology Innovation Program is investing in the development of transformational technologies necessary to advance the large-scale manufacture of nanomaterials. In coordination with the private sector, NIST provides the technical foundation and leadership to the development of international nanotechnology standards—standards that are a key to opening new markets and facilitating trade and commerce.

SPOTLIGHT:

The NIST Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology (CNST) supports the U.S. nanotechnology enterprise from discovery to production by providing industry, academia, NIST, and other government agencies with access to world-class nanoscale measurement and fabrication methods and technology. The CNST is the only national nanocenter with a focus on commerce.  The CNST's shared-use NanoFab gives researchers economical access to and training on a state-of-the-art tool set required for cutting-edge nanotechnology development. The simple application process is designed to get projects started in a few weeks.  Looking beyond the current state of the art, CNST research is creating the next generation of nanoscale measurement instruments and methods, which are made available through collaboration.

Dr. Lloyd J. Whitman, Deputy Director, Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology
301-975-8002, whitman@nist.gov

Media: Mark Bello
301-975-3776, Mark.bello@nist.gov

http://www.nist.gov/director/ocfo/grants/grants.cfm