During the four-day gathering of the EuroNanoLab experts at the ISSP UL from 8 to 11 October, the EuroNanoLab Dry Etching Experts Meeting and EuroNanoLab Steering Committee meeting took place.
The Dry Etching Experts Meeting was a highly anticipated event that brought together top dry etching specialists from Europe’s foremost nano labs to explore cutting-edge topics and drive forward the research in micro- and nanotechnology.
The two-day gathering was designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among experts in the field. Participants engaged in hands-on training sessions that focused on the latest advancements in dry etching techniques and hardware. Discussions covered a range of topics, including cleaning processes, conditioning, and innovative processing techniques that are essential for the development of nanofabrication technologies.
After the dry experts meeting, it was time for the EuroNanoLab Steering Committee to hold their two-day meeting at the ISSP UL. The event focused on advancing collaborative efforts in nanotechnology research across Europe. Key discussions included the evaluation of ongoing projects, the integration of new technologies, and strategies to enhance the network’s visibility and effectiveness. The committee also emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships between academic institutions and industry stakeholders to drive innovation.
Additionally, the meeting provided an opportunity for members to share insights and best practices, with presentations highlighting recent advancements and future directions in nanotechnology. The collaborative spirit of the committee was evident as participants engaged in productive dialogue aimed at strengthening the EuroNanoLab initiative and ensuring its alignment with the evolving landscape of nanoscience and engineering.
Both the dry etching experts and steering committee members had the opportunity to tour the laboratories and cleanrooms of ISSP UL, home to the Nanotechnology Center. During the visit, they learned about the capabilities of ISSP UL’s infrastructure and researchers, as well as potential collaboration opportunities.
EuroNanoLab is a distributed research infrastructure comprising over 40 advanced academic nanofabrication centers across Europe, aimed at enhancing research in micro- and nanotechnology. It facilitates access to high-quality nanofabrication equipment and expertise through a coordinated central hub, enabling collaboration among diverse scientific communities such as quantum technologies, 2D materials, and nanobiosciences. By creating a unified knowledge base and streamlining processes, EuroNanoLab seeks to overcome the limitations of individual cleanrooms, accelerate innovation, transfer technology to startups and SMEs, and address societal challenges in areas like energy, health, and the environment. As it aspires to achieve ESFRI (European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures) status, it aims for enhanced recognition and support on national and international platforms.