Nanoscience is the study of very small-things on a nanometer scale (one thousandth millionth of a metre). This is the scale of large molecules like plastics or proteins. Nanotechnology includes the techniques used to create structures on a scale below 100 nm, which can be used in new generations of electronics, sensors and computer chips. Many of today’s global challenges in the environment and health can be addressed by nanotechnology intervention. Nanoscience and nanotechnology are built upon chemistry and physics. This degree is a solid science degree (physics and chemistry) but with a unique focus on nanoscience and nanotechnology.

Many industries use nanotechnology: semiconductors and electronics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, automotive, food, agriculture, and more. Industry across Europe is predicting a big shortage of graduates with knowledge of nanotechnology in the near future. There’s a wide range of careers for chemistry and physics graduates, many of them using the methodology of physics and chemistry: technical know-how, the logical approach, problem-solving skills. Graduates can work in physics or chemistry based industries such as medical physics, electronics, energy, telecommunications or the pharmaceutical industry.