CNMS Call for User Proposals: High Impact Nanoscience Research

The Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is soliciting proposals for user-initiated nanoscience research that will make effective use of CNMS facilities and staff expertise. The CNMS nanoscience research program provides users with access to a broad range of capabilities for nanomaterials design, synthesis, characterization, and theory/modeling/simulation in order to carry out studies that will significantly advance our understanding of nanoscale phenomena and develop functional nanomaterials systems. Access is provided at no cost to users for research that is in the public domain and intended for publication in the open literature.

Scientifically high-impact proposals are sought that take advantage of any of the CNMS research capabilities. In particular, prospective users are encouraged to submit proposals that utilize and exploit synergies of research capabilities in two or more of the areas listed below, and proposers of experimental nanoscience research are encouraged to request theory/modeling/simulation collaborations as appropriate. Visit the Capabilities section of the CNMS website to learn more.

The CNMS Nanofabrication Research Laboratory capabilities are available to researchers whose proposals are accepted, including:

• E-beam lithography (20-nm linewidth)
• Dual-beam SEM/FIB with Raith lithography
• Advanced optical profilometry (dynamic characterization of nanoscale deformations, large area roughness and flatness analysis with subnanometer resolution)

The CNMS Nanofabrication Research Laboratory is a 10,000 ft² cleanroom environment for nanoscale patterning, nanomaterials processing, and development of controlled synthesis and directed assembly methods; functional integration of soft and hard materials.

Proposals are due on May 4, 2011.  Visit the CNMS Web site for entire call and proposal submission guidelines.