NSF centers to study societal impact of nanotechnology

NSF is funding two new centers and two related projects to study the societal implications and the risks involved in nanotechnology. The fiver year grants, totaling $14.3 million, will fund the sixth major NSF nanotechnology research network and add another piece to the $1 billion per year US National Nanotechnology Initiative. The longer-term implications are changes in the economy and human development, which are to be addressed in a systematic way. Other NSF-sponsored nanotech networks are focused on research infrastructure, computer simulation, manufacturing, informal education through museums and formal K-16 education and teaching.