From molecule-size medicine to “smart” fabrics that adapt to their environment, the rapidly evolving field of nanotechnology is transforming the way we live and work. Emerging practical applications for this 21st century scientific revolution -- and the new jobs and businesses they will bring -- are the focus of the state’s first Nanotechnology Commercialization Conference, March 25-26 at the Raleigh Convention Center.
North Carolina, with more than 65 companies and 30 university-based research centers involved in nanotechnology, is a global leader in this growing technology sector, N.C. Commerce Secretary J. Keith Crisco said today in announcing the conference. The nanotechnology forum will bring together more than 200 top entrepreneurs, business leaders, researchers, investors and service providers from across the state and nation.
“North Carolina continues to set the pace in nanotechnology research and practical application,” Crisco said. “By focusing on practical methods to move nanoscience from the laboratory to the marketplace, this forum will expand our state’s pioneering role in turning these concepts into solid economic development opportunities and high-wage, skilled employment.”
In 2007, $147 billion worth of nanotech-enabled products were sold worldwide, and corporations around the globe are positioning themselves to take advantage of this rapidly expanding technology. This conference, organized by Commerce’s Office of Science and Technology in partnership with the state’s Small Business and Technology Development Center, will spotlight ways for North Carolina to continue leading nanotech growth.
Gov. Bev Perdue will deliver the luncheon keynote speech on Thursday, March 26. The forum also will feature educational workshops, networking opportunities and exhibit booths, as well as talks by key researchers and industry leaders who are driving nanotechnology success statewide. Other featured speakers include:
- Matthew Nordan, President of Lux Research, who will address, “The Nanotechnology Opportunity: Comparing Nanotech with Life Sciences and IT.”
- Dr. Joseph DeSimone, Chancellor’s Eminent Professor of Chemistry, UNC-Chapel Hill, and William R. Kenan Jr. Distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering, N.C. State University, who will outline “The Value of Commercializing Nanotechnology.”
For conference details, go to: http://www.ncscitech.com/ncncc/. N.C. Commerce is the state’s lead economic development agency, developing and implementing strategies around job creation and investment, community and workforce development, and innovation. For more information, see: http://www.nccommerce.com.