15 May 2007

'Nano in Nottingham'

You can’t see it, you can’t touch it, but nanotechnology is playing an increasingly important part in everyday life. To highlight the latest life-changing developments and applications of this wide-ranging technology, Nottingham Trent University has joined forces with other leading experts in the field, to support ‘Nano in Nottingham’, a spectacular three-day exhibition of films, games and interactive displays.

Funded by the East Midlands Development Agency (emda), and taking place in Nottingham's newly transformed Old Market Square, this free event is aimed at boosting public awareness and knowledge of what nanotechnology is all about. Nottingham Trent University will be amongst the experts on hand who will deliver a series of scientific experiments with the emphasis on fun and to demonstrate the potential benefits of nanotechnology to society at large.

CELS exhibits will include making molecules, hand on a plate, the nano Qwik Qwiz and hands-on magnetism interactives.

Visitors will also be able to meet 'Nano Man', watch specially commissioned nano films, play the 'NanoMission' computer game, catch a molecule, test their golfing skills, build a drug and take part in a quiz to win an iPod Nano. Organised by the University of Nottingham, 'Nano in Nottingham' is being sponsored by emda and Innovation East Midlands (InnEm). It is also being supported by Nottingham City Council.

The event runs alongside Nano-Expo 2007, an international conference and exhibition at the East Midlands Conference Centre on 16 and 17 May. The conference brings together leading researchers and industrialists in the field of micro- and nanotechnology. Both initiatives support Nottingham's designation as one of the UK's six Science Cities, of which Nottingham Trent University is a key partner.

Martin French, emda's Head of Innovation, said:

"Nano in Nottingham' is a great opportunity not only to showcase innovation but also to encourage and support people, businesses, communities and organisations to engage their scientific excellence."

Professor Yvonne Barnett, Pro Vice Chancellor and Head of The College of Science and Technology at Nottingham Trent University, said:

"We are very excited at being involved in this important initiative. By making science much more accessible for everyone, which is our aim for 'Nano in Nottingham', we can demonstrate the expertise within Nottingham in the area of nanotechnology and how the latest advances can help to improve our lives."

'Nano in Nottingham' takes place in the Old Market Square on:

Wednesday 16 May 16, 10am to 8pm
Thursday 17 May, 10am to 6pm
Friday 18 May, 10am to 3pm

For more information please visit the 'Nano in Nottingham' website.