Nanoscale Science Web Lectures

The Nanoscale Science and Engineering Forum (NSEF) has begun a series of webinars.  The first covered the important topic of Environment, Health and Safety Aspects of Nanomaterials: From Research to Policy.  As the inaugural speaker for the NSEF Distinguished Web Lecture Series, Dr. Kristen Kulinowski of Rice University led the lecture and discussion. 

Abstract 

The trajectory of nanomaterials research and development is determined not only by the academic and industrial technical communities but also by politicians and policy makers. One issue that is perceived to be a potential roadblock for commercialization of nanotech-enabled products is the concern over potential environmental and health impacts resulting from the production and use of nanomaterials. The political and regulatory landscape of nanotechnology is in constant flux as new information emerges. Can or should nanomaterials be treated any differently than other materials of the same or similar chemical composition? Are existing mechanisms equipped to handle this broad new class of materials? Is new regulation or legislation needed, if only to allay the concerns of the public? This talk will provide a review of the science and the current regulatory framework for assessing materials.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Kristen M. Kulinowski is Faculty Fellow in the Department of Chemistry at Rice University and Executive Director for Policy for the Center for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology (CBEN). She currently serves as the Director of the International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON), an international, multi-stakeholder organization whose mission is to develop and communicate information regarding potential environmental and health risks of nanotechnology thereby fostering risk reduction while maximizing societal benefit. She has experience as a chemical researcher, educator, curriculum developer, administrator, outreach coordinator and policy fellow.

Slides from her talk are available here.