Nanototouch
Nanosciences Live in Science Centres and Museums

The Projects has been funded by the Science in Society programme. It aims to communicate effectively research in the field of nanotechnology. Non specialised visitors will be involved in activities and debate through the direct contact with young researchers in action.

The NANOTOTOUCH proposal aims to create innovative environments for the broad public to learn about and to discuss nano research by directly involving the actors of research themselves.

Laboratory environment and the research work will be taken out of enclosed academic campuses and relocated in science centres and museums. Three science museums and three science centres will closely cooperate with local university partners to create three permanent Open Nano Lab locations (in Munich, Milan and Gothenburg) and three Nano Researcher Live areas (in Mechelen, Tartu and Naples). Here visitors will experience “live” the day-to-day practices and processes of nano research conducted by young scientists.

This equal basis dialogue between lay public and nano-researchers not only creates a bidirectional feedback, it also minimises the expert-to-lay bias (“top-down" approach) inherent present science communication processes with authoritative top researchers. In order to prepare the young scientists for this novel method of communication, NANOTOTOUCH also includes a strong communication skills training component.

NANOTOTOUCH will also establish new role models for choosing science as a career.