2005 IRISH SCIENTIST YEAR BOOK

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Trinity College Dublin
Treasa N� Mh�och�in
The frontiers of nanoscience � Centre for Research on Adaptive Nanostructures and Nanodevices (CRANN)


The Nanoworld

The traditional disciplines of Physics, Chemistry and Biology combine in the Nanoworld where we can observe and manipulate objects one million times smaller than a millimetre. Nanotechnologies are emerging � from novel drug delivery systems to future generation electronic devices � which will change our lives in the coming decades. With a current estimated value of $20 billion, nanotechnology is projected to grow to a $1 trillion global industry by 2015. CRANN is Ireland's research institute dedicated to advancing the frontiers of nanoscience.


Research at CRANN

The ambitious scientific programme at CRANN, supported by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), combines the research strengths of world-leading scientists across four exciting research themes:

  1. the Membrane-Fluid Interface

  2. Nanoscale Contacts

  3. Self-Assembled Nanomaterials

  4. Spin Electronics

Drawing together research teams from the Physics and Chemistry Departments at Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin and University College Cork, the centre is also defined by its goal to partner academic excellence with industrial expertise. Relationships with several high-potential Irish start-up technology companies and a key industrial partnership with Intel, are integral to life at CRANN.


A New Home for Nanoscience in Dublin

Construction of the new 6000 m2 CRANN building has begun on the TCD campus, with the support of SFI, Trinity College and a private donation from Dr. Martin Naughton. Due to open in 2007, this state-of-the-art institute will feature clean-rooms, ultra-stable vibration-free laboratories and specialist facilities for a staff that will increase from 70 at present to 150 by 2007. From its site at the intersection of Pearse Street and Westland Row, CRANN will bring world-class science into the very heart of Dublin.


Impression of the future CRANN building


Come and See for Yourself!

Two floors of the building will also feature Ireland's only Science Gallery, an exciting new space inviting the whole community to participate in the science of today and engage with the issues of tomorrow. With glass panelling running the length of the building, open exhibition space, a 150-seat lecture theatre and an energetic staff, the Science Gallery will be open and accessible to all. Through a series of exhibitions, discussions and debates on topical and controversial issues in the world of science, CRANN and the Science Gallery will open a window to our scientific future.

E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://www.crann.tcd.ie