The California NanoSystems Institute (CNSI) and the Center for Nanotechnology in Society (CNS) are launching a collaborative quarterly series called NanoCafé in order to promote and foster discussion about emerging nanotechnologies and their implications.

The first NanoCafé will be held in the lobby of the California NanoSystems Institute on Wednesday, April 11 from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.  Directions can be found here.

Each NanoCafé will explore a different nanotechnology-related issue.  The first NanoCafé will be an overview of nanotechnologies, how they could change our lives, their benefits, and their potential risks.  Speaking at this first event will be CNSI Director Evelyn Hu and CNS Co-Director Patrick McCray.While significant nanotechnology research is performed at UC Santa Barbara’s CNSI and CNS, the NanoCafé series offers an opportunity for members of the greater Santa Barbara community to learn more about the nanotechnology field and earn a greater understanding of this emerging technology.

A science background is not required for the NanoCafé series. The UCSB series is based on a successful model developed in 2006 by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and used to introduce citizens to the basic concepts of nanoscience and the accompanying societal issues.

Wine and cheese will be served.

The NanoCafé is free and open to the public.  Space is limited; RSVP to events@cnsi.ucsb.edu or (805) 893-6025.