Welcome to the NISE Network

What is NISE Net?

The Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network (NISE Net) is a national community of researchers and informal science educators dedicated to fostering public awareness, engagement, and understanding of nanoscale science, engineering, and technology.

Why was NISE Net formed?

Advances in nanoscale science, engineering, and technology are revolutionizing medicine, computing, materials science, energy production, and manufacturing. Yet, to the general public, these advances can be invisible or difficult to understand.

The NISE Network was created to engage the public in advances in nanoscale research, to capture the imagination of young people who may subsequently choose careers in nanoscale science or technology, and to foster new partnerships among research institutions and informal science centers.

In 2005, the Museum of Science, Boston, the Exploratorium, and the Science Museum of Minnesota joined together with a dedicated group of partners and advisors to develop the Nanoscale Informal Science Education (NISE) Network. Funded by the National Science Foundation through a five-year cooperative agreement, the Network supports a variety of activities designed to build the capacity of informal science institutions and research organizations to work together to engage the public in learning about nanoscale science, engineering, and technology.

Our partners and advisors

Who can join NISE Net?

Research institutions, museums and informal science organizations, and other individuals who are interested in communicating with the public about nanoscale research are welcomed and encouraged to join.

What's the purpose of this Web site?

• To facilitate communication and collaboration among research institutions and informal science centers.
• To expand our reach of potential Network members and other interested parties.
• To share professional resources including exhibits, programs, forums, media, and other tools to engage our publics.
• To provide the public with information and activities about nano, both online and in their neighborhood.