Jun 27 2007
The UK's Nanotechnology Task Force, convened by the University of Surrey, was launched with a conference at Portcullis House to discuss the future of nanotechnology in the UK.
The Taskforce has been created in response to concern over Government's failure to develop a coherent strategy for funding nanotechnology research. This, the Taskforce considers, is vital to the proper development of science and technology in the UK. The current absence of a coordinated approach to investing in UK nanotechnology is contributing to the UK relinquishing technological leadership to other economies.
By encouraging communication and collaboration between industry, Government and academia, the group aims to identify specific areas of science and technology in which the UK can be a world-leader. Funding of research, the Taskforce argues, should then be channelled to harness the UK's innovation and creativity of scientists to help the country gain a competitive advantage.
Founded by leading UK scientists UK and chaired by Dr Ian Gibson MP, the Taskforce has been established to encourage informed public debate about nanotechnology, promote its benefits and address concerns over issues including safety and ethics.
The launch is part of the Taskforces' conference 'Nanotechnology - is Britain Leading the Way?'. The event, featuring speakers including Nobel Prize winner Professor Sir Harry Kroto FRS, will focus on examining specific areas of opportunity for nanotechnology in the UK, including health, sustainable energy, economy and sports.
Founding Taskforce member, Professor Ravi Silva, Director of the Advanced Technology Institute at the University of Surrey, commented: "The innovative work of UK scientists and technologists has demonstrated the case for the widespread potential benefits which nanotechnology can offer to society and industry. What is now needed is a coordinated effort supported by strategic funding from the Government, to turn this potential into real benefits. We hope the Taskforce can help deliver this."
Dr Ian Gibson MP said: "Nanotechnology will be the next Industrial Revolution, but if the UK wants to be a major part of it, the Government needs to demonstrate its commitment to science. The work of the Taskforce will help direct the focus of research and there is no better place than the 2012 Olympics to showcase the benefits of nanotechnology and incorporate it into the exciting renovation in East London."