The NSERC CREATE Training Program in Nanomaterials Science & Technology (NanoMat) is a new, innovative training program at UBC that will train a future generation of scientists and engineers in nanomaterials research. The program is funded by NSERC through the CREATE program, where CREATE stands for “Collaborative Research and Training Experience.” Nanomaterials can be applied to many areas of technology, and other sectors including healthcare products, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, alternative energy, and catalysis. As the nanotechnology and nanomaterials sectors increase, there will be a sustained demand for trainees that have strong knowledge and training in nanomaterials synthesis, characterization and application, are well-trained on nanoscience instrumentation, and have professional skills that will help them succeed in industry. NanoMat Trainees will undertake interdisciplinary, collaborative research projects with a focus on alternative energy, the environment, or health. These trainees will have strong professional development skills, outstanding hands-on training in nanomaterials research, and extensive industrial contacts to facilitate their transition to the workplace.

The NanoMat training objective is to prepare the graduates of our program with a powerful skill set that will help Canada meet its need for a highly qualified nanotechnology workforce, and to become a global leader in nanomaterials. This will be achieved by:

• Providing coursework and hands-on training that will give researchers scientific and engineering skills that are critical to industry.

• Nurturing excellent leadership, communication, and professional skills.

• Using interactions with industry and international labs to help trainees establish new collaborations and networking that will facilitate their transition into the workforce.

NanoMat is funded through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) CREATE program.