Lord Taylor and Rt. Hon. David Willetts to Present at NanoKTN Conference

The coalition government has acknowledged the UK’s strong lead in many areas of nano-innovation and recognises the role of nanotechnology, both as a potential driver for recovery and as a key to responding to some of our major societal challenges.

Lord Taylor will open the event with his keynote presentation looking at the new governance arrangements for nanotechnologies, and how the government is working together with industry to set a strategic direction for nanotechnology in the UK in order to maximise opportunities for commercialisation of innovation, and ensuring a joined up approach across government departments and agencies to provide a more balanced focus for research into areas of potential opportunity and potential risk. The Rt. Hon David Willetts will deliver the second keynote talk focussing on how nanotechnologies will contribute to our high-tech future. There will also be opportunities for delegates to ask questions following each of these talks from the ministers.

“Nanotechnologies are recognised as major drivers for growth, not only in the UK, but across the world and this event provides an opportunity to hear the coalition government’s plans for supporting the UK’s nanotechnology industries,” explains Dr Barry Park, Theme Manager at the NanoKTN.

Park continues, “Events like this are extremely important for all those connected with nanotechnology in the public and private sectors to hear the government’s plans and to contribute to the debate regarding how government and industry can work together to realise the maximum value for the UK from nanotechnology based industries.”

The event will also provide an update on recent European developments in nanomaterials and REACH, the EC’s recommended nanomaterial definition, the French Decree regarding notification of nanomaterials, and the potential implications of these developments for industry and the innovation process. There will also be panel discussions and opportunities to hear about current and future funding opportunities through the EC’s FP7 NMP Programme and the Technology Strategy Board.

Attendance at the event is free of charge but registration is essential. For further information about the event please visit www.nanoktn.com.