Nanotech risk assesment minor will study technology risks
For these professors, it is essential that the consequences of nanotechnology are examined sooner than later.
"A key concept is that studying risks hand-in-hand with benefits best allows risk mitigation at an early stage of R&D [research and development], before the technologies are widely disseminated and used," Links said.
The nanotechnology risk assessment minor will consist of seven courses: Nanobiotechnology 101; Nanotechnology Risk Assessment; Nanotechnology Ethics, Law and Policy; Nanotechnology Environmental Impacts; Nanotechnology Human Health Impacts and a seminar series.
They will be mostly at the 400-level but catered to students from both the engineering and arts and sciences schools.
"I think the minor in risk assessment will offer a nice complement or balance to the disciplines that promote the production of nanoparticles," Bouwer said, noting that "there is a lot of funding and interest to manufacture nanoparticles and nanomaterials … it is important for students to get educated on the topic of potential risks."
Public opinion toward nanotechnology is currently very positive, which Bouwer and Links find troubling.
"I think the public and politicians are only hearing about the potential positive aspects of nanotechnology," Professor Bouwer said. "There is very little emphasis on the potential risks."
"A key concept is that studying risks hand-in-hand with benefits best allows risk mitigation at an early stage of R&D [research and development], before the technologies are widely disseminated and used," Links said.
The nanotechnology risk assessment minor will consist of seven courses: Nanobiotechnology 101; Nanotechnology Risk Assessment; Nanotechnology Ethics, Law and Policy; Nanotechnology Environmental Impacts; Nanotechnology Human Health Impacts and a seminar series.
They will be mostly at the 400-level but catered to students from both the engineering and arts and sciences schools.
"I think the minor in risk assessment will offer a nice complement or balance to the disciplines that promote the production of nanoparticles," Bouwer said, noting that "there is a lot of funding and interest to manufacture nanoparticles and nanomaterials … it is important for students to get educated on the topic of potential risks."
Public opinion toward nanotechnology is currently very positive, which Bouwer and Links find troubling.
"I think the public and politicians are only hearing about the potential positive aspects of nanotechnology," Professor Bouwer said. "There is very little emphasis on the potential risks."
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