Nanoscience

Nanoscience is the study of materials and phenomena at the nanometre scale — typically below 100 nanometres. At this scale, matter behaves in unique ways, opening the door to new technologies with applications in health, energy, and electronics. The NN Group at ICMAB focuses on exploring the fundamental principles of nanoscience while pushing the boundaries of its practical applications.

Our research aims to understand how structure, composition, and size at the nanoscale determine the properties of materials. We work with a range of nanostructures, including nanoparticles, nanowires, thin films, and self-assembled systems. Through advanced synthesis and characterisation techniques, we seek to control these properties to develop materials with specific, tunable functions.

Nanoscience is, by nature, interdisciplinary. Our group integrates knowledge from physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering to address complex problems. Whether we are developing magnetic nanostructures for targeted drug delivery or new materials for low-energy memory devices, our approach is rooted in curiosity-driven research combined with an eye on societal needs.

The NN Group also contributes to the training of young researchers and actively collaborates with both academic and industrial partners. Our facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories for nanofabrication and materials characterisation, enabling us to carry out high-quality research with a broad impact.

By deepening our understanding of nanoscience, we lay the groundwork for innovations that can transform everyday life — from more efficient electronics to more precise medical treatments.