Profile Area
Profile Area

Nanosciences

In the profile area “Nanosciences”, researchers primarily focus on the synthesis, structure, dynamics and function of nanostructures. These are created by combining methods of molecular synthesis, bottom-up self-organisation and top-down nanomanufacturing. The structure and dynamics of such nanoscale systems are explored using the latest methods of nanoanalytics, complex calculations and simulations. This profile area involves intensive collaboration with the Center for Nonlinear Science (CeNoS) at the University of Münster. The overarching goal of its research endeavours is to achieve further progress toward making passive nanosystems more dynamic and adaptive.

The research activities in the area of “Nanosciences” are supported by the participating faculties’ outstanding research infrastructures, especially interdisciplinary research facilities, e.g. the Center for Nanotechnology (CeNTech) and the Center for Soft Nanoscience (SoN), which contain large-scale equipment and cleanrooms. The Münster Nanofabrication Facility (MNF) offers state-of-the-art methods and large-scale equipment required in nanomanufacturing and nanoanalysis. With the cryogenic electron microscope at the Center for Soft Nanoscience, researchers are able to study complex biological nanostructures at the atomic scale. The research excellence in this profile area is demonstrated further by the participation and coordination of numerous joint research projects funded by top-rate funding providers and research institutions, including the DFG, the BMBF, and the European Union.