Welcome to NanoScience Technology Center
Welcome to NanoScience Technology Center (NSTC) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) where the mission is to establish a cutting-edge research program in materials and nanotechnology, provide high quality training for students and facilitate the advance of innovations to solve real world technology challenges. Founded in 2004, NSTC has emerged as a leading hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering advancements in various fields through the manipulation and application of materials and devices at the nanoscale.
Situated in the heart of Orlando, Florida, NSTC operates within UCF, one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic research universities. With a strong commitment to excellence and a diverse and talented team of researchers and faculty, NSTC strives to push the boundaries of scientific discovery and technological breakthroughs, paving the way for a future shaped by nanoscience. At NSTC, the pursuit of knowledge and innovation transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. Researchers from diverse backgrounds, including physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and materials science, come together to explore the vast potential of nanotechnology. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a collaborative and dynamic environment where ideas are shared, theories are tested, and breakthroughs are made. The interests of our faculty are diverse and the innovative research programs including Green Energy, In Vitro Test Systems, Composites, Computer/Mathematical Simulations, Assistive Robotics, Quantum Dynamics, Bioimaging, NanoElectronics & NanoPhysics, Nanomaterials for Sustainable Agriculture, Integrated Device Development and Advanced Materials have been explored. Our research effort has made significant impact on nanotechnology society and industry. NSTC faculty has received NSF CAREER, ONR YIP, and DARPA YIA awards. In 2016, Materials Innovation for Sustainable Agriculture Center (MISA), a USDA-NIFA recognized Center of Excellence, was established to address agricultural diseases threatening crop yield.
One of the key strengths of NSTC lies in its strong partnerships and collaborations with industry, government agencies, and other academic institutions. By fostering strategic alliances, NSTC ensures that its research and technological advancements are translated into real-world applications and solutions. This collaboration also provides students and researchers with unique opportunities to engage in industry-driven projects, internships, and professional development programs.
Education and training are integral components of NSTC’s mission. The center offers comprehensive educational programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, providing students with a solid foundation in nanoscience and nanotechnology. Through innovative coursework, hands-on laboratory experiences, and mentorship from leading experts in the field, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this rapidly evolving area of research. NSTC currently offers M.S. degree program in nanotechnology at NSTC and Ph.D. degree programs through different colleges. The center hosts the NSF REU site on nanotechnology and nanoscience undergraduate education program through the NSF NUE program. In the future, we plan to implement a formal course of nanotechnology for undergraduate students at UCF.
The center boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories equipped with cutting-edge tools and instruments necessary for nanoscale research. These facilities allow researchers to conduct experiments and investigations with unparalleled precision, enabling them to delve into the fundamental properties of matter at the nanoscale and develop innovative applications across various industries.
NSTC is committed to diversity and inclusion, recognizing the importance of nurturing talent from all backgrounds. The center actively promotes the participation of underrepresented groups in nanoscience research and education, striving to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Through initiatives and partnerships aimed at increasing diversity, NSTC aims to ensure that the next generation of nanoscientists reflects the rich tapestry of society.