Formal training in sustainability and innovation begins with a module on Nurturing and Managing Innovation in Science (NMIS) during the first six months of the programme. This module complements the core scientific work done by students in other parts of the programme, by emphasizing the contexts that scientific work operates within. It is a practice oriented module, and includes a group project where students work in self-assembled teams to iteratively focus in to a specific innovation challenge to work on based on their interests. More information about this module is available here.
Beyond Nurturing and Managing Innovation in Science (NMIS), further discussions and training in sustainability and innovation follow in the PhD phase, including during residential off-site worskhops. Transitioning academic research to higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and applications that are of environmental, social or economic benefit to society is an important focus of our centre. We support this work through schemes such as the NanoFutures Leadership Award and other programmes. Interaction with industry partners through events and joint PhD projects, as well as innovation seminars, helps enrich the students experience.
The innovation training combined with a strong scientific foundation has enabled a large number of our students and alumni to set up startup businesses based on their own research or on other topics.
Building a holistic approach for doing science, including societal impact of science, and emphasising inclusivity in all aspects of research, applications, entrepreneurship and communication is an important part of the programme. Widening Participation in Science to create a more inclusive environment is an important aspect that the NanoDTC has focussed on recently, for example through the NanoFutures Scholars Summer Internship for Undergraduates.
