PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 5, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- The region's nanotechnology activities will be prominently showcased at the upcoming NanoCommerce 2003 conference in Chicago, IL, December 8-11. Dr. David Counts, Ph.D., director of life sciences programs, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP), will discuss the Nanotechnology Institute (NTI) as part of the Government & University Initiatives in Nanotech panel.
The NTI, founded in 2000 with a $10.8 million commitment from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is a partnership among BFTP/SEP, the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. As a regional focal point for nano-related efforts, the NTI builds on the collective strengths of corporate interests, life and material science assets, research institutions, and economic development organizations.
The NTI's current research and development efforts are lead by 41 faculty representing nearly a dozen academic and medical institutions. Among its most recent accomplishments, the NTI has leveraged more than $57 million in state and federal funds, developed an associate degree curriculum for nano-biotechnicians; partnered with Penn State University and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to convene the first statewide conference on nanotechnology, and played a lead role in the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and Innovation Philadelphia's regional roadmap process, a new initiative designed to identify local economic development opportunities.
The NTI's activities also were showcased at the National Nanotechnology Initiative's summit on Regional, State and Local Initiatives in Nanotechnology held recently in Washington, DC. Dr. Barry Stein, executive vice president of BFTP/SEP and a member of the NTI management team participated on two panels that highlighted the NTI's efforts to position nanotechnology as a key economic driver for the Mid-Atlantic region.
Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP) is dedicated to growing the region through science, technology and entrepreneurship. Now commemorating 20 years of innovation excellence, Ben Franklin provides entrepreneurs and established businesses the capital, talent, and expertise they need to compete. Like its namesake, Ben Franklin invests in, builds upon and delivers solutions that grow communities and create new wealth by supporting today's technological ideas and tomorrow's scientific discovery.
For more information: www.sep.benfranklin.org