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Research in the nanosciences in France

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<strong>Research</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>France</strong><br />

With more than 5,300 researchers and 240 laboratories work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong> and<br />

nanotechnologies, French <strong>in</strong>stitutions are engaged <strong>in</strong> a great many nano-research projects <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

broad fields of electronics, communications, materials, energy, biotechnologies, pharmacology,<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>e, health, and <strong>the</strong> environment. Albert Fert shared <strong>the</strong> 2007 Nobel prize <strong>in</strong> physics with German<br />

Peter Grünberg for <strong>the</strong>ir <strong>in</strong>dependent discoveries of giant magnetoresistance and <strong>the</strong>ir contribution to<br />

<strong>the</strong> development of sp<strong>in</strong>tronics, which made possible <strong>the</strong> magnetic readers used <strong>in</strong> today’s computers.<br />

With <strong>the</strong> research <strong>in</strong>frastructure built s<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> 1990s, <strong>France</strong> is one of <strong>the</strong> leaders <strong>in</strong> basic research<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong>. The country ranks second <strong>in</strong> Europe, after Germany, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> amount <strong>in</strong>vested <strong>in</strong><br />

nanoscience research, and fifth <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> world <strong>in</strong> number of publications <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> field.<br />

Nanometer: a billionth of a meter, 0.000,000,001 meter.<br />

Nanotechnology is <strong>the</strong> study of phenomena and <strong>the</strong> manipulation of materials at <strong>the</strong> atomic, molecular, and macromolecular<br />

levels, where properties differ significantly from those observed at larger scales.<br />

Nanotechnologies cover <strong>the</strong> design, manufacture, and specification of nanostructures <strong>in</strong>tegrated with<strong>in</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r devices,<br />

<strong>the</strong>reby mak<strong>in</strong>g possible new applications. The success of <strong>the</strong>se nanostructures relies on tight control of <strong>the</strong> shape and size<br />

of materials at nanometric scale.<br />

Key sectors for applications<br />

of nanotechnology research<br />

Electronics: Microelectronics, embedded electronics (telephone,<br />

touch-screen tablet, computer, home appliances), ITC (quantum<br />

computer, nanotransistors), and flat screens, among o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />

Energy: lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen cells for <strong>in</strong>creased<br />

autonomy of electric cars and motors, nanocomponents.<br />

Environment: nanometric filtration membranes (water purification),<br />

catalytic converters, organic chemistry (hydrocarbons, oxidation).<br />

Materials: nanotubes, nanoparticles (pa<strong>in</strong>t, plastic, textiles),<br />

nanopowders, nano-emulsions and -pigments (sunblocks, sk<strong>in</strong><br />

care).<br />

Medic<strong>in</strong>e: nanocapsules, nanoparticles, nanomaterials (gene<br />

<strong>the</strong>rapies, tissue repair <strong>in</strong> regenerative medic<strong>in</strong>e), nanostructures<br />

(allergy-related tests, molecular tests and markers), nanometric<br />

systems (analysis of substances <strong>in</strong> blood), implanted<br />

nanostructured biomaterials, biochips (genetic analysis).<br />

Public <strong>in</strong>vestment <strong>in</strong> nano-biotechnologies<br />

http://<strong>in</strong>vestissement-avenir.gouvernement.fr<br />

In 2012, two projects of <strong>in</strong>terest were among 20 projects<br />

selected for <strong>the</strong> national public <strong>in</strong>vestment program known as<br />

Investissements d’avenir (Investments <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Future),<br />

- The DIRAN project: The goal of <strong>the</strong> project is to explore <strong>the</strong><br />

potential of nanotechnologies for <strong>the</strong> development of a new<br />

generation of medical equipment for <strong>the</strong> early detection of<br />

hospital-acquired <strong>in</strong>fections and a better understand<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

orig<strong>in</strong>s.<br />

- The FACSBIOMARKER project: This project explores <strong>the</strong><br />

potential of nanotechnologies for <strong>the</strong> development of new, highresolution<br />

methods for early detection and diagnosis of <strong>in</strong>vasive<br />

cancers and for more-effective monitor<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong>rapeutic<br />

processes.<br />

1


Major research organizations<br />

Competitiveness clusters - http://competitivite.gouv.fr<br />

6 centers of competence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong>, C’Nano were established <strong>in</strong> 2004. The C’Nano centers count on a network of firms and<br />

<strong>in</strong>stitutions of higher education to support <strong>the</strong>ir work on technological <strong>in</strong>novations needed by <strong>in</strong>dustry.<br />

• Lyonbiopôle: Lyonbiopôle is develop<strong>in</strong>g products and services around m<strong>in</strong>iaturized <strong>in</strong>telligent solutions (micro-nanotechnologies and<br />

embedded <strong>in</strong>telligence software) for <strong>in</strong>dustry. http://www.lyonbiopole.com<br />

• M<strong>in</strong>alogic: located <strong>in</strong> Grenoble, M<strong>in</strong>alogic also offers m<strong>in</strong>iaturized <strong>in</strong>telligent solutions (micro-nanotechnologies and embedded<br />

<strong>in</strong>telligence software) for <strong>in</strong>dustry. http://www.m<strong>in</strong>alogic.com<br />

• Microtechniques: located <strong>in</strong> Besançon, Microtechniques is built around technology know-how derived from, among o<strong>the</strong>r th<strong>in</strong>gs,<br />

watchmak<strong>in</strong>g. Its products are relevant to chip cards, telephones, remote broadcast relays, parameters, satellites, pacemakers, gears,<br />

control panels, and aircraft and automobile eng<strong>in</strong>es. http://www.polemicrotechniques.fr<br />

• POPSUD (optics and photonics): located <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, POPSUD specializes <strong>in</strong> complex optical and imag<strong>in</strong>g<br />

systems designed for demand<strong>in</strong>g environments. http://www.popsud.org<br />

• S2E2 (electrical energy systems and sciences): serv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Centre-Limous<strong>in</strong> regions, <strong>the</strong> S2E2 cluster performs work at every stage of<br />

<strong>the</strong> electrical energy value cha<strong>in</strong>. http://www.s2e2.fr<br />

• SCS (secure communication solutions): operat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, <strong>the</strong> SCS competitiveness cluster targets<br />

equipment and software for transmitt<strong>in</strong>g, exchang<strong>in</strong>g, and process<strong>in</strong>g data securely and reliably. http://www.pole-scs.org<br />

Thematic advanced research networks (known as RTRAs)<br />

http://www.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr>Stratégie et organisation<br />

RTRAs are made up of research laboratories pursu<strong>in</strong>g a shared strategy toward a common scientific objective. Three of <strong>France</strong>’s 13 RTRAs<br />

deal with aspects of <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong>:<br />

- Grenoble <strong>nanosciences</strong> network<br />

This RTRA br<strong>in</strong>gs toge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> CNRS, <strong>the</strong> French atomic and alternative energy commission (CEA), <strong>the</strong> Institut Polytechnique de Grenoble,<br />

and Université Joseph Fourier <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir nano-related work <strong>in</strong> quantum electronics, magnetism, photonics, materials, <strong>the</strong> life sciences,<br />

measurement and description, and model<strong>in</strong>g. http://www.fondation-<strong>nanosciences</strong>.fr<br />

- Orsay physics triangle<br />

The Orsay physics triangle br<strong>in</strong>gs toge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> laboratories of <strong>the</strong> Palaiseau-Orsay-Saclay region for work on specific <strong>the</strong>mes (optics,<br />

sp<strong>in</strong>tronics-magnetoelectronics, nanophysics) that benefit from <strong>the</strong> use of very large research <strong>in</strong>struments like <strong>the</strong> Soleil particle accelerator,<br />

<strong>the</strong> neutron reactor at <strong>the</strong> Léon Brillou<strong>in</strong> national laboratory for neutron diffusion), or <strong>the</strong> high-powered lasers at <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tense laser laboratory<br />

(LULI) on <strong>the</strong> campus of <strong>the</strong> École Polytechnique, <strong>the</strong> wave and acoustic laboratory (LOA) <strong>in</strong> Palaiseau), and <strong>the</strong> CEA. The Orsay physics<br />

triangle is <strong>the</strong> home base of French researcher Albert Fert, w<strong>in</strong>ner of <strong>the</strong> 2007 Nobel prize <strong>in</strong> physics. http://triangledelaphysique.fr<br />

- CIRFC (The Strasbourg <strong>in</strong>ternational center for research at <strong>the</strong> frontiers of chemistry)<br />

Founded by Université de Strasbourg, <strong>the</strong> CNRS, <strong>the</strong> BASF companies (world leaders <strong>in</strong> chemistry), and Bruker (high-tech <strong>in</strong>strumentation),<br />

CIRFC is a multidiscipl<strong>in</strong>ary center that grapples with all aspects of chemistry at <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>terface with physics, materials, and biology.<br />

http://www.icfrc.fr<br />

Institut Carnot - http://www.<strong>in</strong>stituts-carnot.eu<br />

The Carnot label is awarded to public research bodies that comb<strong>in</strong>e basic research with an active policy of research partnerships with<br />

<strong>the</strong> world outside academia. Of <strong>the</strong> three Carnot Institutes work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> nanotechnologies, two—LAAS and CEA/LETI—have already been<br />

mentioned. The third is STAR (science and technology for research applications), located <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Aix-Marseille university complex. STAR<br />

consists of 12 research laboratories affiliated with <strong>the</strong> university and <strong>the</strong> CNRS that are engaged <strong>in</strong> R&D (<strong>Research</strong> and Development)<br />

projects on <strong>in</strong>dustry-relevant topics such as energy, transportation, electronics, aeronautics, <strong>the</strong> environment, and health.<br />

http://www.<strong>in</strong>stituts-carnot.eu/fr/star<br />

2


Doctoral departments<br />

and <strong>Research</strong> laboratories<br />

Chemistry and physics<br />

• Carnot-Pasteur - ED 554 - http://ed-carnot-pasteur.u-bourgogne.fr<br />

Affiliated with doctoral department 554 at Université de Dijon, <strong>the</strong> UTINAM <strong>in</strong>stitute (specializ<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> space, transportation, <strong>in</strong>terfaces,<br />

nanostructures, <strong>the</strong> atmosphere and environment, and molecules) is organized <strong>in</strong>to five teams: structured materials and surfaces;<br />

nanoparticles, contam<strong>in</strong>ants, and membranes; <strong>the</strong>oretical physics and astrophysics; spectroscopy, planetology, atmospheres, clathrates,<br />

and <strong>the</strong> environment; and sonochemistry and surface reactivity. http://www.ut<strong>in</strong>am.cnrs.fr<br />

• EMMA (mechanical energy and materials) - ED 409 - http://www.emma.uhp-nancy.fr<br />

The scientific doma<strong>in</strong>s covered by EMMA at Université de Lorra<strong>in</strong>e <strong>in</strong> Nancy and Metz are mechanics, energy, matter and materials,<br />

materials development processes, component manufactur<strong>in</strong>g processes, and mechanical and energy systems.<br />

Affiliated with EMMA, <strong>the</strong> Institut Jean Lamour (IJL) conducts research on three <strong>the</strong>mes: emerg<strong>in</strong>g materials, <strong>nanosciences</strong>, and<br />

nanotechnologies; <strong>the</strong>oretical physics and model<strong>in</strong>g; and hot plasma physics. http://www.ijl.nancy-universite.fr<br />

• LP2N (digital photonics and <strong>nanosciences</strong> laboratory) - (UMR 5298)<br />

LP2N, a jo<strong>in</strong>t research unit of <strong>the</strong> CNRS and Université Bordeaux, and <strong>the</strong> Optical Institute Graduate School, studies photons and<br />

nanosystems (optical and quantum phenomena at microscopic scale), matter waves, atomic lasers, and microsystems (optical phenomena<br />

that also use atoms). http://www.lp2n.<strong>in</strong>stitutoptique.fr<br />

• 3MPL (Matter, molecules, and materials <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Pays de Loire) - ED 500 - http://www.univ-lemans.fr>Recherche>Formation doctorale<br />

Affiliated with 3MPL at Université du Ma<strong>in</strong>e Le Mans, <strong>the</strong> IMN (Jean Rouxel materials <strong>in</strong>stitute) is a jo<strong>in</strong>t research unit of <strong>the</strong> CNRS and<br />

Université de Nantes that carries out research on three <strong>the</strong>mes: nanostructures, nanocomposites (nanowires, nanoparticles, etc.), and <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

applications (such as transparent electrodes, special artificial glasses, OLEDs); nano-bio-systems (and hybrid nano-bio-systems); complex<br />

materials with nonconventional electronic properties (such as <strong>in</strong>sulator–metal transitions <strong>in</strong>duced by an electric field). http://www.cnrsimn.fr<br />

• PHAST (Lyon physics and astrophysics) - ED 52 - http://phd-physics.universite-lyon.fr<br />

This doctoral department at <strong>the</strong> Université de Lyon covers <strong>the</strong> fields of astrophysics, subatomic physics, optics and lasers, optical and<br />

optoelectronic materials, <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong> and nanomaterials, and nonl<strong>in</strong>ear physics, as well as <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>terfaces between physics and<br />

health and physics and biology. Affiliated with <strong>the</strong> department is PMCN (<strong>the</strong> laboratory of condensed matter physics and nanostructures),<br />

which studies and develops solid materials and soft matter. http://www-lpmcn.univ-lyon1.fr<br />

• Physics and chemistry of materials - ED 397 - http://www.ed397.upmc.fr<br />

The ma<strong>in</strong> research <strong>the</strong>mes of this doctoral department at Université Pierre et Marie Curie are reactive materials, catalysis, organic-<strong>in</strong>organic<br />

hybrids, functional materials (optics, magnetism, biomaterials), polymers, nanostructures (nanomagnetism, sp<strong>in</strong>tronics), and <strong>the</strong><br />

mesoscopic physics of granulars, aggregates, and surfaces. Affiliated with doctoral department 397 is <strong>the</strong> INSP (Paris <strong>nanosciences</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>stitute), which performs basic nanoscience research focused on optoelectronics, telecommunications, <strong>the</strong> earth and environmental<br />

sciences, catalysis, and medical diagnostics. http://www.<strong>in</strong>sp.jussieu.fr<br />

• P2MC (particle and condensed matter physics) - ED 389 - http://www.ed389.upmc.fr<br />

This doctoral department of physics at Université Pierre et Marie Curie explores <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong>, particularly through <strong>the</strong> study of<br />

plasmonics and metallic nanostructures.<br />

• Physics <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Paris region - ED 107 - http://www.phys.ens.fr/Ecole.Doctorale/<br />

This doctoral department at <strong>the</strong> École Normale Supérieure <strong>in</strong> Paris pursues research on <strong>the</strong> manipulation and use of unique microscopic<br />

objects (such as atoms, molecules, quantum boxes), condensed matter at small sizes, and nanophysics.<br />

• Physics and sciences of matter - ED 352 - http://ed352.sciences.univmed.fr<br />

The research fields covered by this doctoral department at Aix-Marseille Université are astrophysics, cosmology, particle physics,<br />

<strong>the</strong>oretical physics, ma<strong>the</strong>matical physics, optics, photonics, hot plasmas, lasers, materials science, condensed matter, and <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>nanosciences</strong> and <strong>the</strong>ir relation to biophysics. Affiliated with doctoral department 352 is CINaM (Marseille <strong>in</strong>terdiscipl<strong>in</strong>ary center for<br />

nanoscience), which performs research <strong>in</strong> six areas: molecular eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g and functional materials, nanomaterials and reactivity, punctual<br />

sources and waves, <strong>the</strong> science and technology of nano-objects, and digital <strong>the</strong>ory and simulation. http://www.c<strong>in</strong>am.univ-mrs.fr<br />

3


• Sciences of matter - ED 482 - http://www.edsdm.ups-tlse.fr<br />

Affiliated with doctoral department 482 is CEMES (center for materials development and structural research), which conducts scientific<br />

research <strong>in</strong> three broad areas: crystall<strong>in</strong>e materials under constra<strong>in</strong>ts, nanomaterials, and <strong>nanosciences</strong>. http://www.cemes.fr<br />

Electronics<br />

• EEA (electronics, electrotechnics, and automation) - ED 160 - http://edeea.ec-lyon.fr<br />

The EEA doctoral department at Université de Lyon has 3 specialties: energy and systems, <strong>in</strong>formation and communication technologies<br />

for health, and micro- and nanotechnologies. Affiliated with EEA is INL (Lyon <strong>in</strong>stitute of nanotechnologies), which performs multidiscipl<strong>in</strong>ary<br />

technological research <strong>in</strong> micro- and nanotechnologies, materials, and systems. http://<strong>in</strong>l.cnrs.fr<br />

• EEATS (electronics, electrotechnics an signals) - ED 220 - http://www.edeeats.grenoble-<strong>in</strong>p.fr<br />

This Doctoral Department of <strong>the</strong> Institut National Polytechnique de Grenoble covers 5 specialties <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Nanoelectronics and<br />

Nanotechnology: tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> physics of semiconductors and components, microelectronics technology, logic and analog <strong>in</strong>tegrated circuit<br />

design, model<strong>in</strong>g and simulation of <strong>in</strong>tegrated circuits, microsystems.<br />

• GEET (electrical eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g, electronics, and telecommunications from system to nanosystem) - ED 323 - http://educ.laas.fr/GEET/<br />

This doctoral department at Université de Toulouse does research on micro-nano systems, microwaves, electromagnetism, and optoelectronics,<br />

as well as <strong>in</strong> electrical eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g, radiophysics, and medical imag<strong>in</strong>g. Affiliated with GEET and located at INSA Toulouse is LPCNO (laboratory<br />

of <strong>the</strong> physics and chemistry of nano-objects). LPCNO studies <strong>the</strong> physical properties of nano-objects (nanostructur<strong>in</strong>g, nanomagnetism,<br />

syn<strong>the</strong>sis of nanoparticles), nanomanufactur<strong>in</strong>g techniques for microelectronics, and applications to <strong>in</strong>formation and communication<br />

technologies and to biomedic<strong>in</strong>e. http://lpcno.<strong>in</strong>sa-toulouse.fr<br />

• I-MEP2 (eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g of materials, mechanics, environment, energetics, and production) - ED 510 - http://edimep2.grenoble-<strong>in</strong>p.fr<br />

I-MEP2 is a doctoral department of <strong>the</strong> Institut Polytechnique de Grenoble that carries out research <strong>in</strong> microanalysis, quantitative analysis<br />

of microstructures, and microscopy.<br />

• Materials of Lyon - ED 34 - http://ed34.universite-lyon.fr<br />

This multidiscipl<strong>in</strong>ary doctoral department at Université de Lyon performs research <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> microstructure and properties of materials.<br />

Fields of application <strong>in</strong>clude nanoelectronics, nano-optics, and nanobiotechnologies. Various materials are studied: structural materials<br />

(metals and alloys, ceramics, polymers, composites), functional materials (for electronics and optoelectronics), and natural materials<br />

(particularly those pert<strong>in</strong>ent to <strong>the</strong> study of geology).<br />

• Physics for eng<strong>in</strong>eers and microtechniques - ED 37 - http://ed-spim.univ-fcomte.fr<br />

This doctoral department at Université de Franche-Comté focuses its research efforts on optical and electronic, mechanical, and energy<br />

systems; materials; automation; and computer-aided manufactur<strong>in</strong>g of computers, and frequency times. Cutt<strong>in</strong>g-edge microtechnical<br />

sectors are emphasized. Affiliated with <strong>the</strong> doctoral department is FEMTO-ST (<strong>the</strong> Franche-Comté <strong>in</strong>stitute for <strong>the</strong> science and technology<br />

of electronics, mechanics, <strong>the</strong>rmics, and optics), which focuses on automation and microrobotics, materials and surfaces, and energy. The<br />

department of micro- and <strong>nanosciences</strong> and systems operates <strong>in</strong> three sites: Besançon, Montbéliard, Belfort. http://www.femto-st.fr<br />

• SPI (eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g sciences) - ED 72 - http://edspi.univ-lille1.fr<br />

SPI covers six areas of research <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g sciences, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g micro- and nanotechnologies, acoustics, and telecommunications.<br />

Affiliated with SPI is IEMN (<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>stitute of electronics, microelectronics, and nanotechnology, which conducts research on five <strong>the</strong>mes:<br />

physics of nanostructures; micro- and nanosystems; micro-, nano-, and optoelectronics; communication systems and microwave<br />

applications; and acoustics. http://exploit.iemn.univ-lille1.fr<br />

• Eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g sciences: mechanics, physics, micro- and nanoelectronics - ED 353 - http://ed353.univ-mrs.fr<br />

<strong>Research</strong> at this doctoral department at Aix-Marseille Université spans several discipl<strong>in</strong>es: micro- and nanoelectronics, mechanics and<br />

physics of cont<strong>in</strong>uous media (solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, acoustics, <strong>the</strong>rmics, energetics, biomechanics). Fields of application<br />

<strong>in</strong>clude materials, transportation, energy, <strong>the</strong> environment, health, and musical creation. IM2NP (<strong>the</strong> Provence <strong>in</strong>stitute of materials,<br />

microelectronics, and <strong>nanosciences</strong>) is composed of two departments: <strong>the</strong> department of materials and <strong>nanosciences</strong>, and <strong>the</strong> department<br />

of micro- and nanoelectronics. http://www.im2np.fr<br />

Health<br />

• SCBS (chemical and biological sciences for health) - ED 168 - http://ecole-doctorale-cbs2.igh.cnrs.fr<br />

Affiliated with <strong>the</strong> SCBS doctoral department, <strong>the</strong> host team known as Bio-health and <strong>nanosciences</strong> (EA 4203) pursues research on<br />

biomaterials and biophysics.<br />

• Sciences, technologies, health - ED 358 - http://www.univ-reims.fr>Recherche>Écoles doctorales>L’École Doctorale STS<br />

Affiliated with doctoral department 358, LRN (<strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong> research laboratory) embraces three research <strong>the</strong>mes: development and<br />

application of nanomaterials; nanocharacterization and methodological developments; nanobiotechnologies.<br />

http://www.univ-reims.fr/site/laboratoire-labellise/lrn/<br />

4


The network of major<br />

technological research centers<br />

http://www.rtb.cnrs.fr<br />

What makes French nanoscience research unique is <strong>the</strong> very dense network of specialized technological facilities necessary for<br />

applications. A national network of large centers for basic technological research was established <strong>in</strong> 2003 to implement a plan to support<br />

a network of nanomanufactur<strong>in</strong>g centers and to enable laboratory research teams to make use of a set of globally competitive<br />

nanomanufactur<strong>in</strong>g methods.<br />

The national network is coord<strong>in</strong>ated by CEA, <strong>France</strong>’s commission on atomic and alternative energies, and CNRS, <strong>the</strong> national center for<br />

scientific research. <strong>Research</strong> focuses on five <strong>the</strong>mes:<br />

• Integration of technologies and heterogeneous systems<br />

• Micro-, nano-, and biosystems<br />

• Micro- and nanoelectronics and ultimate (s<strong>in</strong>gle-molecule) electronics<br />

The centers are clustered at 5 sites:<br />

• The Rhône-Alpes cluster <strong>in</strong>cludes <strong>the</strong> CEA-LETI center and <strong>the</strong> Upstream Technological Platform, known as PTA. <strong>Research</strong> <strong>the</strong>mes<br />

<strong>in</strong>clude quantum nanoelectronics, nanomagnetism, and sp<strong>in</strong> electronics, as well as <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>terface between biology, on <strong>the</strong> one hand, and,<br />

on <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r: nanoelectronics, nanophotonics, molecular electronics, mechanical nanosystems, and nanomaterials. These are<br />

complemented by <strong>the</strong> pr<strong>in</strong>cipal research <strong>the</strong>mes of LETI: Above IC, microelectronics, photonic systems, and biochips.<br />

The Rhône-Alpes cluster also <strong>in</strong>cludes several o<strong>the</strong>r structures on various sites:<br />

- <strong>the</strong> M<strong>in</strong>atec cluster, created at <strong>in</strong>itiative of CEA-LETI Grenoble and INP Grenoble, organizes <strong>the</strong> activities of 4,000 <strong>in</strong>dividuals.<br />

http://www.m<strong>in</strong>atec.org<br />

- <strong>the</strong> Crolles site, which also houses <strong>the</strong> STMicroelectronics company, has <strong>the</strong> only 300 µm nanoelectronics factory <strong>in</strong> <strong>France</strong>, with about<br />

1,000 research personnel, work<strong>in</strong>g on transistor and <strong>in</strong>tegrated circuit architectures, manufactur<strong>in</strong>g processes, and design methodologies.<br />

This center manufactures experimental circuits for laboratories throughout <strong>the</strong> world. http://www.st.com<br />

- FMNT, <strong>the</strong> micro- and nanotechnologies federation, operates six laboratories. http://fmnt.onl<strong>in</strong>e.fr<br />

• The Nord cluster is home to <strong>the</strong> IEMN (<strong>in</strong>stitute of electronics, microelectronics, and nanotechnology) center created <strong>in</strong> 1992 by <strong>the</strong><br />

CNRS, Université des Sciences et Technologies de Lille (USTL), Université de Valenciennes et du Ha<strong>in</strong>aut Cambrésis (UVHC), and <strong>the</strong><br />

Institut Supérieur d’Électronique et du Numérique (ISEN). It br<strong>in</strong>gs toge<strong>the</strong>r physicists, electronics specialists, and acousticians around<br />

studies of materials and nanostructures, microtechnologies and microsystems, and micro- and optoelectronics.<br />

http://www.iemn.univ-lille1.fr<br />

• The Sud-Ouest cluster, which <strong>in</strong>cludes <strong>the</strong> LAAS (laboratory for systems analysis and architecture) <strong>in</strong> Toulouse is labeled by <strong>the</strong> Institut<br />

Carnot and is a full-fledged CNRS research unit affiliated with <strong>the</strong> Université Paul Sabatier-Toulouse 3, INSA-Toulouse, and INP-Toulouse.<br />

With<strong>in</strong> LAAS-CNRS, 17 research groups are organized <strong>in</strong>to four groups:<br />

- <strong>the</strong> micro- and nanosystems group (MINAS)<br />

- <strong>the</strong> robotics and artificial <strong>in</strong>telligence group (RIA)<br />

- <strong>the</strong> systems model<strong>in</strong>g, optimization, and operation group (MOCOSY) - <strong>the</strong> critical computer systems group (SINC)<br />

http://www.laas.fr<br />

• The Île-de-<strong>France</strong> cluster is made up of 3 <strong>in</strong>stitutions:<br />

- <strong>the</strong> LPN center (laboratory of photonics and nanostructures)<br />

LPN is a CNRS research unit. Its research covers <strong>the</strong> fields of quantum <strong>in</strong>formation process<strong>in</strong>g, optical communications, optic signal<br />

process<strong>in</strong>g, high-density <strong>in</strong>formation storage, and microfluidics comb<strong>in</strong>ed with <strong>the</strong> use of nanostructures, a field that is at <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>terface of<br />

physics, chemistry, and biology. http://www.lpn.cnrs.fr<br />

- <strong>the</strong> IEF center (<strong>in</strong>stitute for fundamental electronics)<br />

A jo<strong>in</strong>t CNRS–Université Paris Sud-XI research unit, IEF is located at <strong>the</strong> Orsay scientific center. Its research agenda <strong>in</strong>cludes silicon III-V<br />

nanoelectronics (semiconductor-based micro-nanoelectronics), nanomagnetism, micro- and nanophotonics, microsystems, and<br />

equipment-centered and software-centered systems. http://www.ief.u-psud.fr<br />

- <strong>the</strong> IOGS (optical <strong>in</strong>stitute graduate school)<br />

Located on <strong>the</strong> Palaiseau campus of <strong>the</strong> Ecole Polytechnique and labeled by <strong>the</strong> Institut Carnot, <strong>the</strong> IOGS specializes <strong>in</strong> atomic and quantum<br />

optics, nanophotonics, nonl<strong>in</strong>ear materials, lasers, and optic systems. It is currently <strong>the</strong> lead<strong>in</strong>g western center for master’s-level tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

optics as measured by <strong>the</strong> number of graduates. http://www.<strong>in</strong>stitutoptique.fr<br />

• The Grand-Est cluster is based on <strong>the</strong> FEMTO-ST center (Franche-Comté electronics, mechanics, <strong>the</strong>rmics, and optics–science and<br />

technology). A jo<strong>in</strong>t CNRS research unit, it is affiliated with Université de Franche-Comté (UFC), <strong>the</strong> École Nationale Supérieure de<br />

Mécanique et de Microtechniques (ENSMM), and Université Technologique de Belfort-Montbéliard (UTBM). <strong>Research</strong> is carried out <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

fields of mechanics, optics, telecommunications, electronics, frequencies, energetics, and fluidics. http://www.femto-st.fr<br />

5<br />

• Nanotechnologies, nanomagnetism, nanomaterials<br />

• Optoelectronics and photonics


Useful l<strong>in</strong>ks<br />

• ABS, Algorithmics and structural biology for macro-molecular<br />

systems: http://www.<strong>in</strong>ria.fr/equipes/abs<br />

• Database of nanomaterials organizations <strong>in</strong> <strong>France</strong>:<br />

http://www.nanomateriaux.org<br />

• Admission of doctoral candidates and postdoctoral fellows,<br />

RTRA Grenoble:<br />

http://www.fondation-<strong>nanosciences</strong>.fr/RTRA/fr/6/recrutement.html<br />

• Center for competence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>nanosciences</strong> of <strong>the</strong> Rhône-Alpes<br />

region: http://www.cnano-rhone-alpes.org<br />

• <strong>Research</strong> center for vegetal macromoleculars (CERVAM):<br />

http://www.cermav.cnrs.fr<br />

• CIME nanotech, Universitary center <strong>in</strong> microelectronics and nanotechnology:<br />

http://www.cime.<strong>in</strong>pg.fr<br />

• “Des nanotechnologies à la biologie de synthèse,” Annales<br />

des M<strong>in</strong>es 2010:<br />

http://www.annales.org/ri/2009/ri_fevrier_2010.html<br />

• European School On Nanosciences & Nanotechnologies<br />

(ESONN): http://esonn.fr<br />

• FMNT, micro- and nanotechnology research federation:<br />

http://fmnt.onl<strong>in</strong>e.fr<br />

• FEMTO-ST (Franche-Comté <strong>in</strong>stitute for <strong>the</strong> science<br />

and technology of electronics, mechanics, <strong>the</strong>rmics, and optics):<br />

http://www.femto-st.fr<br />

• Framework program of <strong>the</strong> European Commission:<br />

http://cordis.europa.eu/nanotechnology/<br />

• French group for polymer research and applications:<br />

http://www.gfp.asso.fr<br />

• French m<strong>in</strong>istry of <strong>the</strong> economy, f<strong>in</strong>ance, and <strong>in</strong>dustry:<br />

http://www.<strong>in</strong>dustrie.gouv.fr/portail/politiques/<strong>in</strong>dex_nanotech.html<br />

• Grenoble Institut des Nanosciences (GIN):<br />

http://neurosciences.ujf-grenoble.fr<br />

• ICON (International Council of Nanotechnology):<br />

http://icon.rice.edu<br />

General <strong>in</strong>formation<br />

• ABG-L’<strong>in</strong>telli’agence, promot<strong>in</strong>g career opportunities for young<br />

PhDs: http://www.<strong>in</strong>telliagence.fr<br />

• ANDèS, national association for Science PhD:<br />

http://www.andes.asso.fr<br />

• ANRT, national agency for research and technology:<br />

http://www.anrt.asso.fr<br />

• CNRS, national center for scientific research: http://www.cnrs.fr<br />

- Directory of laboratories and researchers:<br />

http://www.cnrs.fr/fr/une/annuaires.htm<br />

- CNRS <strong>in</strong>ternational magaz<strong>in</strong>e (<strong>in</strong> English):<br />

http://www2.cnrs.fr/en/2.htm<br />

• INAC (<strong>nanosciences</strong> and cryogenics <strong>in</strong>stitute): http://<strong>in</strong>ac.cea.fr<br />

• Institute for New Energy Tecnologies: http://www-liten.cea.fr<br />

• Laboratoire des technologies de la microélectronique:<br />

http://www.ltm-cnrs.fr<br />

• MESCAL, calcul haute performances pour les nanoscience:<br />

http://www.<strong>in</strong>ria.fr/equipes/mescal<br />

• Micro & nanomagnetism group:<br />

http://neel.cnrs.fr>Le Laboratoire>Équipes de Recherche>MNM<br />

• MINATEC, <strong>in</strong>novation campus for micro- and nanotechnologies:<br />

http://www.m<strong>in</strong>atec.com<br />

• Nano-D, modélisation et simulation de nano-systèmes:<br />

http://nano-d.<strong>in</strong>rialpes.fr<br />

• Nanofab, centrale de développement de procédés de micro et<br />

nanofabrication pour la recherche fondamentale:<br />

http://neel.cnrs.fr>Le Laboratoire>Pôles technologiques>Nanofab<br />

• Nano-Micro technologies club: http://www.clubnano.asso.fr<br />

• Nanomat, an <strong>in</strong>ternational network for <strong>the</strong> study of nanomaterials:<br />

http://www.nanomat.fr<br />

• NanoLyon, <strong>the</strong> technology platform of <strong>the</strong> Lyon region:<br />

http://<strong>in</strong>l.cnrs.fr>Plateforme NanoLyon<br />

• NANOFORUM, <strong>the</strong> European nanotechnology forum:<br />

http://www.nanoforum.org/<br />

• Nano Safe, a consortium for <strong>the</strong> production and utilization of<br />

nanomaterials: http://www.nanosafe.org<br />

• Nanosciences foundation: http://www.fondation-<strong>nanosciences</strong>.fr<br />

• Nanosp<strong>in</strong>tronique et transport moléculaire (NanoSp<strong>in</strong>):<br />

http://neel.cnrs.fr>Le Laboratoire>Équipes de Recherche>NanoSp<strong>in</strong><br />

• Plateforme Technologique Amont (PTA): http://pta-grenoble.com<br />

• STMicroelectronics: http://www.st.com<br />

• Surfaces, Interfaces et Nanostructures (SIN):<br />

http://neel.cnrs.fr>Le Laboratoire>Équipes de Recherche>SIN<br />

• Théorie et Nanosciences (ThNano):<br />

http://neel.cnrs.fr>Le Laboratoire>Équipes de Recherche>ThNaNo<br />

• EURAXESS, mobility for researchers <strong>in</strong> Europe:<br />

http://ec.europa.eu/euraxess/<strong>in</strong>dex_en.cfm<br />

• Fondation Alfred Kastler, hospitality and support for foreign<br />

researchers <strong>in</strong> <strong>France</strong>: http://www.fnak.fr<br />

• M<strong>in</strong>istry of Higher Education and <strong>Research</strong>:<br />

http://www.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr<br />

• Oséo Innovation, <strong>the</strong> French <strong>in</strong>novation agency: http://www.oseo.fr<br />

• Website for mobile European researchers <strong>in</strong> <strong>France</strong>:<br />

http://www.eurosfaire.prd.fr/mobility<br />

• THESA, website for <strong>the</strong>sis of (CGE): http://<strong>the</strong>sa.<strong>in</strong>ist.fr<br />

• A complete list of Doctoral Departments <strong>in</strong> <strong>France</strong> can be found onl<strong>in</strong>e at<br />

www.campusfrance.org>F<strong>in</strong>d your program>Level Doctoral<br />

The onl<strong>in</strong>e catalog provides direct l<strong>in</strong>ks to <strong>the</strong> research units with<strong>in</strong> each Doctoral department.<br />

A bil<strong>in</strong>gual (French and English) search eng<strong>in</strong>e enables users to obta<strong>in</strong> results by select<strong>in</strong>g from<br />

among 20,000 keywords and 80 discipl<strong>in</strong>ary <strong>the</strong>mes. Departmental profiles are also provided.<br />

• CampusBourses, directory of grant programs: www.campusfrance.org>F<strong>in</strong>ance your program<br />

Mars 2013<br />

6

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