Where to start?

Within the last few days, we've pointed out the severity of the problems that lie ahead, and reiterated the enormous difficulty of designing and implementing solutions that are complex enough to deal with all those problems.

So, where to start?

Given that we are the Center for Responsible Nanotechnology, our focus will be on that technology (especially the fourth generation of development, when molecular manufacturing becomes possible) and on its relationship to the other issues.

In 2004, CRN prepared a list of the thirty most essential topics that must be examined with regard to MM, to prepare for its probable development within the next decade or two. We published the list in a PDF file for download, and also as a series of web pages for online review. Although we've received several inquiries, and at least one recommended study was performed, not nearly enough has been done.

This week, we will review that list in an effort to rekindle interest in this vital work.

The thirty recommended studies are organized in several sections. The first section covers the fundamental theory: insights that may be counterintuitive or unobvious and need explanation, but that can be double-checked by simple thought:

1. Is mechanically guided chemistry a viable basis for a manufacturing technology?
2. To what extent is molecular manufacturing counterintuitive and underappreciated in a way that causes underestimation of its importance?

We are actively looking for researchers interested in performing or assisting with this work. Please contact CRN Research Director Chris Phoenix if you would like more information or if you have comments on the proposed studies.

Tags: nanotechnology nanotech nano science technology ethics weblog blog

Comments

[Jake Blande]

How much are you offering in research grants?

[Chris Phoenix, CRN]

We don't currently have a research grant program. We are working on broadening our funding base, but for now we're all-volunteer--including ourselves.

We have gotten some good research on a volunteer basis, and hope to get more; at the same time, we do recognize that research grants could improve the speed of research, and it's one of the things on our list to work toward funding.

Chris