PROFESSIONAL MASTER OF SCIENCE IN
NANOSCALE PHYSICS

  The Nanoscale Physics program prepares students for a career in nanoscience by combining a strong component in quantum theory, which governs the behavior of systems at the nanoscale, with the study of practical nano- and mesoscale devices. This provides the student with the knowledge required to successfully navigate the emerging field of nanoscale science and nanotechnology.  In addition, a year-long course in methods of experimental physics is offered to ensure that students obtain the advanced practical skills valuable to the nanotechnology industry.

     Rice is a well-established center for nanotechnology, with researchers active in several departments outside the physics core. The Richard E. Smalley Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology includes among its faculty Nobel Laureate R. Curl, as well as esteemed faculty from the physics and astronomy, chemistry, electrical and computer engineering, civil and environmental engineering, chemical engineering, bioengineering, computational and applied math, and mechanical engineering and materials science departments. It focuses on interdisciplinary studies in many areas of nanoscale science including carbon nanotubes, nanoshells, and nanobiology.

     The Center for Biological and Environmental Nanoscience (CBEN) at Rice fosters the development of this field through an integrated set of programs that aim to address the scientific, technological, environmental, human resource, commercialization, and societal barriers that hinder the transition from nanoscience to nanotechnology.  The Center's research focuses on investigating and developing nanoscience at the "wet/dry" interface.

Faculty members involved in the Professional M.S in Nanoscale Physics Program include:

F. Barry Dunning, Track Director (Physics and Astronomy)
Douglas A. Natelson, Track Advisor  (Physics and Astronomy)

Andrew R. Barron (Chemistry)
Linda P. Driskill (Cain Project in Engineering and Professional Communication)
Jason H. Hafner (Physics and Astronomy)
Amy M. Jaffe (Baker Institute for Public Policy)
Thomas C. Killian (Physics and Astronomy)
Kristen M. Kulinowski (Center for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology)
Vicki L. Colvin (Chemistry)
Kathleen S. Matthews (Dean of Natural Sciences)
Frank R. Toffoletto (Physics and Astronomy)

Last updated 03/21/2008 by Dagmar Beck