A Partnership for Innovation: Promoting Education and Research in Nanofabrication Applications to Biology and Medicine

Pennsylvania State Univ University Park, University Park PA

Investigators

Abstract

0090393 Wormley This award is to The Pennsylvania State University to support the activity described below for 24 months. The proposal was submitted in response to the Partnerships for Innovation Program Solicitation (NSF 0082). Partners The partners for this award include the Pennsylvania State University; Pennsylvania Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology Partnership, which includes the Pennsylvania State University, industry in Pennsylvania, 14 Community Colleges, and several public school districts. Proposed Activities The activities for this award include formation of an associates degree to train associate degree workforce in nanotechnology, biology, and medicine for the biomedical industry; assessment of the needs of industry for their workforce; curriculum development; research for industry. Proposed Innovation The innovation goals for the program include training a well-qualified workforce for the emerging nanotechnology field (biological and medically related). The range of academe involved goes from high school to community colleges to the Pennsylvania State University. The proposed effort should stimulate economic activity in the private sector creating jobs and economic well being in the state. Potential Economic Impact The potential economic outcomes include a trained workforce to attract and enable biotech industry; research infusion to provide technical assistance to new and emerging companies; state-of-the-art facilities for research and education. Potential Societal Impact The potential benefits to society include creation of new high tech jobs for all levels and all classes of people in the state and general economic well being in the state in emerging biotechnology and biomedical fields.