The Center for Nanotechnology in Society at the University of California, Santa Barbara serves as a national research and education center for the study of the interaction between nanotechnologies and society. We are developing an integrated understanding of the nano-enterprise in the United States and globally. Our research teams are producing new knowledge about such critical areas as:

• Historical and contemporary context of nanotechnologies
• Nanoscale research networks and activities
• Intellectual property structures and the innovation process
• Global technological diffusion
• Perception of risk
• Social intelligence concerning nanotechnologies
• Popular culture responses
• Social movements in response to nanotechnologies
• Public deliberation efforts

CNS Staff and Researchers at a Lunchtime Seminar

In concert with our partner CNS, and related organizations, we offer advanced insight into the social implications of nanotechnologies. CNS-UCSB researchers are dedicated to educational programs that will train the next generation of socially-knowledgeable scientists and engineers in tandem with technologically-sophisticated social scientists and humanists. We are researching new forums for supporting early public involvement in nanoscale research and development.