Vladimir Bulovic won a grant to develop nanocrystal non-volatile memory devices. The project aims to "use self-assembly to manufacture a persistent, nanoscale memory cell that could be produced in an inexpensive organic production system". The devices could have applications in consumer electronics products such as digital cameras and computers, potentially providing longer-life memory, lower manufacturing costs and higher packing density.
Meanwhile, Francesco Stellacci received funding to research nano-contact printing, a technique he hopes will bridge nano-lithography with industrial production. The technology could enable the fast reproduction of a large number of nano-patterns and nano-devices, including products such as DNA sensors, protein analyzers, micro- and nano-fluidics channels, single-electron transistors, optical biosensors, and metallic wires.
The Deshpande Center was set up following a $20 m donation from Desh Deshpande, the chairman and co-founder of US telecoms equipment manufacturer Sycamore Networks, and his partner Jaishree Deshpande. The centre supports emerging technologies such as biotechnology, information technology, novel materials, nanotechnology, microtechnology and alternative energy development.