The Nano2Life Network of Excellence

Nano2Life is the first European Network of Excellence supported by the European Commission under the 6th Framework Programme. Its objective is to merge existing European expertise and knowledge in the field of nanobiotechnology in order to keep Europe as a competitive partner and to make it a leader in nanobiotechnology transfer.

Nano2Life is tackling fragmentation of European nanobiotech by joining 23 so far unconnected dynamic, highly specialised and competent regions and centres with experience in initiating and running nanobiotech programmes. A pool of 21 high tech companies is associated to the network which brings together 170 researchers from 12 countries.

Nano2Life aims to set the basis of a virtual European Nanobiotech Institute, focused on the understanding of the nanoscale interface between biological and non-biological entities, and its possible application in the area of complex and integrated novel sensor technologies, for health care, pharmaceuticals, environment, security, food safety, etc.

Nano2Life will contribute to ensure the development of nanobiotech devices, material and services according to the needs of European industry and in agreement with international social and ethical standards.

The Nano2Life Ethics Working Group

The Nano2Life Ethics Working Group led by Prof. Ludwig Siep exists to explore ethical issues in nanobiotechnology. The group has, for example, conducted a survey on the ongoing discussions in the literature and in the internet on nanobiotech related ethical issues. In addition, the members of the ethics board are also currently screening the project ideas of Nano2Life research teams for ethical issues to investigate the range of ethical questions possibly raised by nanobiotechnology.

Country: Germany