York University’s Faculty of Science, along with Lassonde School of Engineering, has become a Founding Member of Nano Ontario, a not-for-profit organization that embodies the interests of the academic, industry, government and financial communities in the development of nanotechnologies in the province. Nano Ontario strives to develop new connections between its members, and organizes outreach activities that exemplify the ways in which nanoscience and nanotechnology can benefit society.
Nanoscience focuses on the properties and applications of materials on the nanoscale, with dimensions of a few to hundreds of nanometers. At the nanoscale, the properties of an object change significantly, allowing for many possibilities in developing new materials and applying them to various technologies in areas such as electronics, health, medicine and environmental sustainability. Nanotechnology has the potential to develop targeted medicine, and lighter but stronger materials for efficient renewable energy technology and computing devices.
“As Ontario’s second largest academic institution, York University has significant strengths in many areas of interdisciplinary research and education including nanoscience and technology. We are very pleased that the University’s Faculty of Science and Lassonde School of Engineering have joined Nano Ontario as a Founding partner and member of the Board of Directors. We will work with York University to build innovative partnerships and find solutions through nanotechnology to some of the world’s most pressing problems,” says Nano Ontario Chair Arthur Carty.
The new affiliation with Nano Ontario is a great step forward for York, as it will enhance the many projects and studies conducted by York researchers with interests in nanoscience. Among the many benefits, Nano Ontario fosters collaborative opportunities within their network of expertise, information, and connections, facilitates industry-academic partnerships through workshops and conferences, and enables research opportunities for students.
“We are pleased to partner with Nano Ontario to advance nanoscience and technology in exciting and responsible ways,” says Faculty of Science Dean Ray Jayawardhana. “The new partnership aligns well with the Faculty’s priorities as we aim to expand our research capacity in materials science.”
The Faculty of Science is currently seeking two Canada Research Chairs whose research complements York’s existing research strengths in areas such as biosensors, solar cells, nanomaterials, and tissue engineering.
York’s new affiliation will be acknowledged at the 2015 Nano Ontario Conference Nov. 5 and 6, at the University of Ottawa.
Nano Ontario is part of the national organization Nano Canada, which has other provincial chapters. Other affiliates of Nano Ontario include Western University, McMaster University, Queen’s University, University of Windsor, University of Ottawa, and University of Waterloo.