Virginia has earned nationwide-recognition as a leader in nanotechnology. Small Times Magazine presented state rankings in the area of research among the fifty states in micro and nanotechnology development.  The study looked at four areas to measure performance: comparison of number of micro-nano grants to state’s overall grants, comparison of state’s dollars from micro-nano grants to total U.S. dollars, comparison of number of micro-nano grants to total U.S. micro-nano grants, and comparison of state’s number of research centers to total U.S. Centers.  Virginia ranked overall as tenth in the nation, and ranked second in its number of micro-nano grants relative to overall grant activity. 

Virginia also was recognized in a Lux Research Report, "Benchmarking U.S. States for Economic Development from Nanotechnology" released January 2005.  Lux Research ranked Virginia as fourth among the fifty states.  These rankings were determined by independently assessing states' level of nanotechnology activity and general technology development strength. Nanotechnology activity included measures such as status of the state initiative (such as our own VNI) and state funding. Technology development strength included R&D inputs, size of technology workforce and concentration of high-tech companies. Rankings were done on a per capita basis.

In its July 2007 issue, Small Times recognized Virginia among its “Next Top 10” states, ranking the Commonwealth #13 among all states. In its November 2006 issue, Small Times cited the University of Virginia’s prominence and its commitment to micro and nanotechnology research and commercialization. 

The Joint Commission on Technology and Science (JCOTS) formed a 2007 Nanotechnology Authority Advisory Committee to study and make recommendations on the structure of a Nanotechnology Authority, focusing on non-general fund revenue to fund the authority.

George Mason University established a graduate certificate program in nanotechnology and nanoscience: http://nano.gmu.edu/certificate.htm. The certificate is composed of seven courses (21 credit hours) focused on nanomaterials and nanostructures and their relation to bulk materials; and methods for characterization and production of nanomaterials. Contact the Certificate Coordinator, Professor Estela Blaisten-Barojas, SCS, 703-993-1988, blaisten@gmu.edu for more information.

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