Edmonton’s microsystems and nanotechnology sector got a $4.35-million boost last week to help open up a world of small wonders.

The University of Alberta’s NanoFabrication Facility will receive $1.25 million from Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) for equipment, technical support and related costs.

The Alberta Science and Research Authority will provide $3.1 million to the facility for research infrastructure and equipment.

The University of Alberta is contributing $150,000 to the project. The joint funding will help reduce the time and cost it takes to commercialize the results of research and development.

WD’s funding also includes $22,325 for the MicroSystem Technology Research Institute (MSTRI).

The institute supports pre-commercial research projects in microsystems (the convergence of micro-electronics, information technology and life sciences).

The new equipment that will be purchased will allow the facility to better serve its research and industry clients by speeding up development time and to better adapt research plans as the work progresses.

“The NanoFabrication Facility and the MicroSystems Technology Research Institute are working to bring the ideas of Canada’s best and brightest researchers to market,” said Stephen Owen, federal Secretary of State.

“WD’s support . . . helps ensure that Canadians benefit directly from the research and resulting commercialization that is key to success in the knowledge-based economy and a priority recognized in Canada’s Innovation Strategy.”

Added Victor Doerksen, minister of Alberta Innovation and Science: “Support of the nanofabrication facility builds on the province’s investment in the National Institute of Nanotechnology and will help solidify Alberta’s position in this emerging field.

“By continuing to invest in research infrastructure, the province is helping build world-class facilities, thereby attracting the best researchers and becoming a centre of excellence for leading-edge research, including nanotechnology.”

One of the primary goals of MSTRI is to nurture a growing microsystems cluster in and around the U of A.

This involves developing and maintaining connections with existing and start-up companies, public research bodies and the U of A’s Industry Liaison Office.

The MSTRI helps researchers obtain funding for the further development and commercialization of various technologies, including: Micro-detection devices; bioanalytical instruments for drug research; health and diagnostic equipment for disease research; sensor development for forensic, environmental and agricultural needs; development of enabling fuel-cell technologies; and optical switches and devices for enhancing telecommunications and computer network performance.

The NanoFab facility is open to researchers from the U of A and other organizations needing to conduct research in
nanotechnology.

Once receiving training on safety procedures, the equipment and the facility, researchers perform their own fabrications.

More than 42 research groups, representing nine U of A departments from three faculties, have made use of the NanoFab.

In addition, 11 research groups from five Canadian universities have taken advantage of the NanoFab investment.