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Natascha Kappeler is in her last year at high school and chose nanotechnology as topic of her
high school research paper (Maturandenarbeit)
Issue by issue we introduce members of the NCCR Nanoscale Science. This time we interviewed a young women
who is still at school but would like to become a NCCR member in the future. Natascha Kappeler, is in her
last year at high school and chose nanotechnology as topic of her high school research paper
(Maturandenarbeit). She produced a remarkable report, organized an exhibition, gave a talk, and
excellently demonstrated the fascination of nanoscale science.
Natascha, why did you choose nanotechnology as topic for your work?
For me the fascination of the nanocosmos began on October 29th, 2002 during an information event at
the Kantonsschule Alpenquai Luzern. The event was announced in a brochure and focused on the new
NanoCurriculum in Basel, previously unknown to me After the talk of Professor Dr Andreas Engel I
was fascinated about this world of „dwarfs“ and in August 2003I began my research work with the topic
“Nanotechnology – door to the 21st century”.
What exactly was the goal of the work?
One of the goals was to find out and to explain what we understand by nanotechnology. Additionally,
I wanted to learn more about the future of nanotechnology and I planned to evaluate the chances and
risks of these new technologies. Finally, I wanted to present my findings in an exhibition to the
public.
Nanotechnology is a very broad topic. How did you start your research?
In the beginning I read several books and searched the Internet. I sent out letters and emails to
numerous companies and laboratories that deal with nano. Resulting from this I received information
from all over Europe. Based on the immense amount of material I concentrated my research on biology
and medicine.
How did the scientists that you contacted react?
Everybody I asked was very helpful and supported me with information and material.
Please summarize the outcome of your research in three sentences
All students and scientists I interviewed agreed that nanotechnology has a great future. For the
current leading role of Switzerland it is essential that governmental and private financial support
be guaranteed. Regarding risks nanotechnology is like any other technology as dangerous as the human
being that uses it.
What did you personally learn from your work?
This research work has further confirmed my desire to study nanoscale science and the topic has more
and more cast a spell over me. Additionally, I was able to get to get to know some personalities in
the nano field.
How did your colleagues from school react? Were they as enthusiastic as you are?
Most of my colleagues were fully occupied with their own work. However, among the younger pupils and
also among teachers there was considerable interest.
What are your plans for the future?
It is my greatest wish to start my studies nanoscale science in October 2005 in Basel after I have
finalized my Matura.
Thanks a lot, Natascha for this interview and all the best for the future!
More Interviews with NCCR PhD students
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