ESCODNA · European School of DNA Nanotechnology

DNA Nanotechnology is an emerging interdisciplinary area that will underpin the development of future nanoscience-based technologies for areas such as medicine, diagnostic tools, optics and electronics. DNA nanotechnology is based on the unique self-assembly properties of DNA which allow the rational design and synthesis of complex nanoscale structures with predictable form and function. Many other materials can be integrated in such DNA structures to create highly functional nanodevices. The Marie Curie ITN EScoDNA will establish a sustainable European School of DNA Nanotechnology. By providing high quality training to young scientists, EScoDNA will improve their career prospects in both public and private sectors; it will also strengthen the competitive position of European research and industry in this promising strategic field. A network of leading European researchers, two SMEs and a major commercial research institute will work together to foster the development of a new generation of scientists with the skills required to meet future challenges in DNA nanotechnology, from fundamental science to novel applications. The training program will involve collaborative research projects, including international secondments and exchange of data through a web-based Lab-Wiki Journal, and through summer schools and workshops. The industrial partners will be integrated in the training programme, and the two SMEs will coordinate training related to the commercial exploitation of new technologies, management and entrepreneurial skills. They will also take a lead in managing the protection and commercialization of new technologies arising from research with the ITN. The programme is designed to create a pool of highly qualified researchers prepared for a wide range of careers in bionanotechnology and nanofabrication and, especially, capable of contributing to the development of a strong European centre for the scientific and commercial development of DNA nanotechnology.