Nanoscience is a relatively new and extremely exciting area for scientists everywhere. The nano-scale regime of a few to a few dozen molecular bond lengths is the cross-over point from molecular science to materials and bio-macromolecular science. Through control of molecular assembly and nano-scale particle synthesis, scientists aim to harness true quantum electronic effects in nanoelectronic
circuitry, to create specific probes and catalysts of amazing specificity, and to coat tiny particles with various layers at will to make them into designer materials with properties ranging from high-density magnetic storage to immuno-response agents. The 21st century will be a century of biological
chemistry and of multi-molecular assembly: at the nanoscience interface, the two will at some point converge in manners that likely will offer breath-taking opportunities for control of microscopic and macroscopic properties.

UMass Amherst has a very strong investment and capability in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The resources and capabilities of the Materials Research Engineering and Science Center (MRSEC) provide a nationally renowned focus for nanoscience. Multiple Nanoscience Integrated Research Team (NIRT) grants of over $1M have recently been funded by the NSF on the campus. Chemistry department members are major participants in both NIRTs. Our department's strong ties to Physics, Polymer Science & Engineering, and Chemical Engineering provide vital collaborative expertise in the campus mix of basic and applied research that makes nanoscience and nanotechnology so exciting.

For participating faculty see Research Matrix.