The Center’s research program is designed as a systems-level analysis of nanoscale research and development, the global diffusion of nanotechnologies, and responses to nanotechnologies as they emerge. Research is organized within three interdisciplinary research groups:

IRG 1: Origins, Institutions, and Communities, seeks to develop a rich understanding of the historical underpinnings of the current landscape of the nano-enterprise.

IRG 2: Globalization and Nanotechnology , develops a comprehensive understanding of global development and collaboration and competition in the diffusion of nanotechnology, with an emphasis on East and South Asia. 

IRG 3: Nanotechnology Risk Perception and Social Response, studies risk and benefit perception among experts and publics; media framing of nano risks; and methods for engaging diverse U.S. publics in upstream/midstream deliberation about new technologies in society.

Important features of our collective approach are an integrated, participatory relationship with nanoscientists; a focus on specific nanotechnologies such as nanoelectronics, nanoparticles such as quantum dots, and nanoporous materials; comprehensive consideration of their applications in industries like electronics, energy, environmental, and health; and employment of advanced spatial analytic methods and a global framework for analysis.

CNS researchers disseminate their findings to All IRGs are in active research and are generating research findings and disseminating them to varied audiences in publications,  and reports, presentations, and training sessions...