Potential for nano research recognised

Viet Nam has the potential to be one of the world’s leaders in nanomaterial research and development, according to an American scientist, professor Omar M. Yaghi of University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA).

Yaghi is UCLA’s Jean Stone professor of chemistry and has received many awards recognising his research in the design and development of porous metal-organic frameworks.

Speaking to the press this week, Yaghi said that Viet Nam’s students and researchers were well-suited for work in nano-technology.

He noted that a new centre on molecular and nano-architecture (MANAR-Viet Nam), expected to open in March 2011 at the Viet Nam National University-HCM City, would help the country develop this field rapidly.

The Viet Nam National University-HCM City has been working with UCLA to help build and establish the MANAR-Viet Nam Centre as one of the most excellent centres of its kind in Southeast Asia.

In addition, the programme will involve industry partnerships, international collaborations and scholarship exchange.

According to Yaghi, the research and related activities would enable local students to have access to internationally renowned universities and attractive jobs in academia and industry.

Dr. Hoang Dung, head of the Science and Technology Department under the Viet Nam National University-HCM City, said the university would submit to agencies and the Government a call for funds as well as a request for the centre to be officially recognised as the national centre for nanotechnology research. — VNS

Tags: nanomaterial