News and Events

2005 Media Releases

GENEROUS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR LA TROBE NANOTECHNOLOGY/SCIENCE STUDENTS

Five of the students accepted into the La Trobe University Bachelor of Nanotechnology/Bachelor of Science double degree in 2006 will each receive a $6000 scholarship.

The money comes without strings. Winners of the Entrance Scholarship Program may use the money for any aspect of their study or living expenses.

‘This is an exceptional course and we want to support the outstanding students it is attracting,’ said Associate Professor Paul Pigram, co-ordinator of the Nanotechnology course.

The four-year Nanotechnology/Science double degree started in 2005 to blend the emerging disciplines of nanotechnology with a double major in the key enabling sciences of physics and chemistry.

Associate Professor Paul Pigram said the course would be attractive to students interested in the development of new science and new technologies based on the manipulation of atoms and molecules.

‘Our Nanotechnology/Science double degree program aims to provide students with a broad education in disciplines that will underpin the science and technology, in particular nanotechnology, in the coming years.

‘Its structure provides full coverage of subject areas, avoiding the compromises of shorter niche degrees where the supporting sciences are reduced to include the nanotechnology units.

‘Students attracted to this course will have a strong VCE background and general interest in physics, chemistry, and mathematics together with an interest in making connections to biological systems.

‘Key features of our degree program include six specialist courses in nanotechnology— nanochemistry, scanning probe microscopies, imaging and materials characterisation, synchrotron science and technology, semiconductor nanotechnology, and sensors and devices.

‘We believe the course promises stimulating science and a rewarding career path, leading to careers in industry or research.

‘Developments in the field of nanotechnology are proceeding rapidly with the deployment of new devices, improved medical science and control of materials in the nano range,’ Associate Professor Pigram added.

The scholarships are sponsored by Nanotechnology Victoria, RealTek Technologies / EV Group, and La Trobe University’s Faculty of Science Technology and Engineering and School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences.

The Program is open to students studying for the VCE, an interstate Year 12 equivalent, or the International Baccalaureate. Additional eligibility requirements apply. Full details including application materials, eligibility requirements, selection criteria and scholarship conditions are available at www.latrobe.edu.au/nanotechnology

For further information:

Please contact Associate Professor Paul Pigram or Professor John Riley Tel: 03 9479 2622 or
La Trobe University Media and Publications Office Tel: 03 9479 2316.