Focus
Nanoscience education
- Focus issue:
- November 2013 Volume 8 No 11
Image: © DIGIFOTO DIAMOND / ALAMY
Research in nanotechnology has grown rapidly in recent years and, like any successful field, would be expected to influence the curricula being taught at universities. However, if nanotechnology is a field defined by a length scale and not traditional subject areas, has it had a more profound effect on education? And what sort of education do future nanotechnologists need in order to thrive? Such questions and others are explored in this focus issue on nanoscience education.
Editorial
A lot to learn - p783
doi:10.1038/nnano.2013.250
The changing face of nanoscience education around the world.
Abstract - Does molecular electronics compute? | Full text - Does molecular electronics compute? | PDF (165 KB) - A lot to learn
Commentaries
A guide to mentoring undergraduates in the lab - pp784 - 786
Philip S. Lukeman
doi:10.1038/nnano.2013.237
Mentoring undergraduates in a research laboratory requires a different set of skills and approaches than for other lab members. However, if a mentor — be it a faculty member, postdoc or graduate student — can adopt these methods, it can lead to a significantly improved lab experience for everyone involved.
Abstract - Wiring molecules into circuits | Full text - Wiring molecules into circuits | PDF (400 KB) - A guide to mentoring undergraduates in the lab -
Learning and research in the cloud - pp786 - 789
Krishna Madhavan, Michael Zentner and Gerhard Klimeck
doi:10.1038/nnano.2013.231
Research and teaching in nanoscience can, and should, be thought as one joint endeavour. nanoHUB, a cyberinfrastructure that aims to use interactive cloud-based software to meet the needs of both code developers and end-users, is redefining research and education in nanoscience and engineering.
Abstract - A brief history of molecular electronics | Full text - A brief history of molecular electronics | PDF (358 KB) - Learning and research in the cloud
An education in progress - pp789 - 791
Tebello Nyokong and Janice Limson
doi:10.1038/nnano.2013.235
In recent years, South Africa has, like other countries, increased investment in nanotechnology research, which in turn has had an effect on the curricula of its higher-education institutions. However, the focus of these changes, and the approach taken to achieve them, are unique to the circumstances of the country.
Abstract - A brief history of molecular electronics | Full text - A brief history of molecular electronics | PDF (367 KB) - An education in progress
The road ahead - pp792 - 793
Roberto Cingolani
doi:10.1038/nnano.2013.238
Education in nanotechnology has evolved to reflect the new skill set required to perform multidisciplinary research. As the field further develops, it will need to evolve again.
Abstract - A brief history of molecular electronics | Full text - A brief history of molecular electronics | PDF (200 KB) - The road ahead
Feature
Thoughts on an education - pp794 - 796 FREE
doi:10.1038/nnano.2013.239
Eight students from across the world discuss their own nanoscience education.
Abstract - Visions for a molecular future | Full text - Visions for a molecular future | PDF (77 KB) - Thoughts on an education
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