Feb 4 2008
Science class was back in session on February 1 for 30 Albany High School (AHS) students who participated in their second on-site class at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) for the groundbreaking "NanoHigh" program.The "NanoHigh" pilot program is a joint effort between CNSE and the City School District of Albany (CSDA), designed to increase students' understanding about the emerging nanotechnology industry and the career opportunities being created in the Capital Region and around the globe.
The students' day included hands-on laboratory activities led by CNSE Assistant Professor of Nanobioscience Nathaniel Cady and CNSE Assistant Professor of Nanobioscience Yubing Xie. Professor Cady introduced the students to nano and microscale surface patterning and fabrication; they also used the BioForce Nano eNabler (NeN) instrument to "write" fluorescent molecules onto glass slides. Professor Cady ended the activity by showing students how to use a microscope to capture images of the fluorescent patterns and discussed how the technology could be used to build nano and microscale devices, including biosensors.
Professor Xie introduced students to fundamental self-assembly principles and micro/nanoparticle formation techniques through the fabrication of polymeric nanoporous microcapsules. Students then observed the formations using an inverted fluorescence microscope and discussed the potential biomedical applications of the microcapsules.
The first classes in the "NanoHigh" program began last fall at Albany High School, with an introductory course split into two sections: a class that focuses on nanoscience and physics, taught by Jeff Beyer, and a class that teaches about the medical and biological aspects of nanoscience, taught by Dan McCarthy. Based on the success of the initial classes, the district plans to add an advanced nanoscience class next year, as well as a middle school class related to nanotechnology.