What is the IRC?

The Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration (IRC) in Nanotechnology is funded by EPSRC, BBSRC, MRC and the MoD as a collaboration between the University of Cambridge, University College London and the University of Bristol. The IRC will provide an underpinning interdisciplinary activity in Nanotechnology with the theme of understanding and controlling the physical properties of nanostructures and devices by fabrication at single molecule precision. The primary aim is to establish the IRC as an Internationally leading centre for Nanotechnology.

The IRC will run from January 2002 to December 2007 with a total budget of £10M.

Objectives

The objectives of the IRC are

• Fabrication of complex 3 dimensional structures with molecular precision
• Growth of soft layers by directed self-assembly on patterned substrates
• Determining mechanical and electronic properties of nanoscale interfaces
• Evolving architectures for devices in biomedicine and information technology
• Spinning out several projects into the commercial sector.
• Training of personnel in interdisciplinary research.

Who's in the IRC?

The IRC involves the University of Bristol, the University of Cambridge and University College London. Please refer to the People page for more information on who's in the IRC.

Where's the IRC?

• The UCL branch of the IRC is based in the London Centre for Nanotechnology.
• The Cambridge branch of the IRC is based in the Cambridge University Nanoscience Centre.
• The Bristol branch of the IRC will be based in the University of Bristol Nanoscience and Quantum Information Building.

Original Proposal

Click here to read the IRC's original proposal.