Women in Nanotechnology

Book excerpt: This book celebrates a few examples of the many women who have advanced the field of nanotechnology. The book opens with an overview of the field, illuminating how nanotechnology is opening the door to manipulating matter on a scale one billionth of a meter. Then the use of nanotechnology to improve science and scientific literacy is discussed, and strategies for incorporating nanotechnology in K-12 education are presented. Next, an array of female scientists provide technical descriptions of how their work is impacting their respective areas. Topics include applications in the energy, electronics, water, communication and health care sectors, among others. The book closes with a historical perspective on the U.S. National Nanotechnology Initiative and future prospects for nanotechnology. This book provides the opportunity to appreciate some of the key advancements made by women engineers in nanotechnology and to become inspired by the ingenuity and creativity, collaborative nature, and altruistic inventiveness of women engineers. Includes contributions from leading female scientists in nanotechnology Highlights topics in nanotechnology ranging from health care, to sensors, to alternative energy, to clean water, to nanoelectronics Presents an opportunity to learn about the breadth, depth and impact of the field of nanotechnology and women’s important contributions to it