Nanotechnology and bachelor education

Qeam performed for INHOLLAND University a market study on 
the future business needs of firms concerning bachelors with a technology profile to operate in nanotechnology (and microsystems / MEMS) related fields in the Netherlands. The assignment was given by a member of the Executive Board (College van Bestuur) of the mentioned institution. 

Based on a set of research questions, more than a dozen industrial and academic actors were via interviews involved, e.g. DSM, Philips Research, Akzo Nobel, FEI Company, OctoPlus, TNO, Avantium, Bronkhorst, C2V, IMEC, Delft University, University of Twente, Sandia National Laboratories, and University of New Mexico.

Electron microscope (courtesy of FEI Company)

Conclusions and recommendations were presented in a non-public high-quality report called "Labour market needs concerning professional bachelors with a nanotechnology profile". The results supported the institution to balance the potential of a nanotechnology bachelor programme.

What is nanotechnology? 

Nanotechnology focuses on manipulating arrangements between atoms to form nanosystems – with unique physical, chemical and biological properties. It is a field at the junction of chemistry, physics, biology, computer science and engineering. Nanotechnology leads to innovations in life sciences, energy supplies, construction, electronics, and in many other sectors. 

Nanotechnology deals with nanomaterials and nanosystems commonly smaller than 100 nanometers (100 nm). Tinier than 1/10.000 of a millimeter (1 mm). More information >>

Some relevant publications

Fonash (2001), Implications of nanotechnology for the workforce. 
In Roco & Bainbridge (eds.), Societal implications of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Kluwer Academic Publishers, pp. 138-143.

Hullmann & Meyer (2003), Publications and patents in nanotechnology: an overview of previous studies and the state of the art, Scientometrics, Vol. 58(3), pp. 507-527.

Knol (2004), Nanotechnology and business opportunities: scenarios as awareness instrument. Proceedings international conference High-Tech Small Firms, pp. 609-621.

Koehler (2004), Preparing California's workforce for the nanotechnology industrial revolution. In Nanoscience and nanotechnology: opportunities and challenges in California, California Council on Science & Technology, pp. 71-98.

Tegart (2002), Nanotechnology: the challenge for the educators. ATSE Focus, vol. 124, November/December.

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