Calgary provides link in $130-million provincial nanotechnology strategy

July 5, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

Micronanotechnology facility unveiled at U of C

An advanced micro- and nanosystems integration facility on the University of Calgary campus is part of building the province’s expertise in nanotechnology devices. The ultra-clean, vibration-free environment will be used to integrate conventional technologies with emerging nanoscale processes.

Built on a metre-thick floating concrete pad, the restricted access “clean room” houses a unique combination of tools that build on Calgary’s research strengths in nanotechnology.

“This is an integration facility, where we can make that leap from fundamental research to commercial prototyping,” says Elizabeth Cannon, Dean of the Schulich School of Engineering and a spokesperson for the University of Calgary’s nanostrategy. Examples of commercial prototypes that will be developed in Calgary include implantable sensors in health care applications, and more finely tuned and lower impact oil recovery processes. 

Calgary researchers will take part in an information session later in the morning to discuss opportunities created through the recent announcement of the province’s $130-million nanotechnology strategy.

The strategy, announced on May 2, 2007, is designed to improve Alberta's value-added economic base through the application of advances in nanotechnololgy in the areas of energy and the environment, health and medical technologies, and agriculture and forestry. The government's commitment of $130 million over five years, $40 million of which is provided by the Alberta Ingenuity Fund, will begin with investments such as:

* $15 million for graduate student scholarships in nanotechnology;

* $30 million to build a workforce in emerging nanotechnology companies;

* $8 million to establish a nano-packaging/nano product development center;

* $15 million to create an Industrial Applied Research Partnership Program;

* $5.5 million to establish nanoAlberta, with responsibility to lead collaborative efforts that mobilize primary players and resources in the province.

Media contact:

Grady Semmens
Media Relations Advisor – Research
University of Calgary, External Relations
Phone: 403.220.7722
Mobile: 403.651.2515
Fax: 403.220.1312
Email: gsemmens@ucalgary.ca