Research strategy of the Swiss Nanoscience Institute

The interdisciplinary research teams of the Swiss Nanoscience Institute (SNI) focus on those topics where they have longstanding expertise and where they are internationally well recognized experts.

Nanoscale research can be classified into four major fields:
  1. investigation of nanophenomena and nanoprocesses that are specific for the nanometer scale
  2. research and development of nanotools
  3. research and development of new nanomaterials
  4. research of nanosystems consisting of different nanocomponents
Scientists within the Swiss Nanoscience Institute (SNI) are specialized mainly in the analysis of specific nanophenomena and nanoprocesses, in research and development of nanotools and nanosystems. The modules „Nanobiology“, „Quantum Computing and Quantum Coherence“, „Atomic and Molecular Nanosystems“ and „Molecular Electronics“ stand for the core competencies of this national centre of competence in research.
See also: Modules

The development and investigation of new nanomaterials is limited. Scientists within the module “Functional Materials by Hierarchical Self-Assembly” aim to design, prepare and evaluate new intelligent materials and molecular systems with characteristic dimensions in the nanometer range that perform chemical, physical, and biological functions. For instance, they investigate the feasibility of diagnostic and therapeutic targeting by synthetic nanocontainers. Toxicity of these nanocontainers is also examined within this project.
See also: JCR, Vol. 102 / 2, 475 - 488

For scientists of the SNI it is unquestionable that possible risks of nanomaterials have to be examined in detail and that the approval of new nanomaterials needs to be regulated. Also, a public dialogue on new materials, risks and safety is desirable.
Scientists of the SNI are active in this field. Some of them are members of the “Scientific Committee for New and Emerging Health Risks (SCENIHR)“ and work closely with their colleagues from the EU. Currently, SCENIHR is in the process of revising the approval guidelines for new substances so that new nanomaterials can be handled appropriately in the future.   See also

 

Positioning paper research (PDF)

Positioning Statement - Safety in Nanoscale Science and Nanotechnology

Within the Swiss Nanoscience Institute (SNI) we take the concerns that were recently voiced in the media regarding safety in nanoscale science and nanotechnology very seriously. In the current debate, we clearly have to differentiate between unrealistic horror visions and real safety issues. There are certain questions that need to be answered (e.g. possible toxicity of nanoparticles). Long-term studies over several years are required. Research studies that will provide the required data are currently planned or already underway – independent from a call for a moratorium.

Additionally, the benefits as well as possible risks of nanoscale science and nanotechnology have to be openly discussed between scientists and the public. Within the SNI it is our ambition to constantly keep the public informed by providing scientifically correct information about nanoscale science and nanotechnology, and to enter into a constructive dialogue with all stakeholders.


Nanoscience and nanotechnologies: opportunities and uncertainties

Nanoscience and nanotechnologies: opportunities and uncertainties
Report by the Royal Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering, UK, on 29th July 2004