Nanotechnology

USGS is involved in various aspects of nanotechnology research. Scientists are examining the unique nanoparticles of exotic elements formed by bacteria with an eye towards industrial and scientific applications. Toxicological studies are also being conducted to examine the effects of nanoparticles at various levels of biological organization, from the molecular level to individual level. Scientists are also examining the properties of nanoparticles to better understand complex ecosystems/hydrological environments.

The rapidly emerging field of nanomaterials (products using particles ranging from 1-to-100 nanometers) for industrial production of diverse products--from medical therapeutics to ground-water remediation tools--has created the potential for broad distribution of nanomaterials across the landscape (USGS Science Strategy, p. 57). As part of its larger role in evaluating potential risks of stressors on trust resources, USGS is also studying the fate and effects of naturally occurring or engineered nanomaterials (ENM) in the environment.

Energy Sources Bacterial Formation of Nano-scaled Materials from Group 15 and 16 Elements, Production of Nanomaterials of Group 15 and 16 Elements

Environmental Toxicology Engineered Nanomaterials (ENM)

• Contaminant Biology Program
• Mineral Resources Program
• National Nanotechnology Initiative - USGS plans and coordinates research on nanoparticles with other agencies in this formal initiative, participating in the Nanoscale Science, Engineering, and Technology Subcommittee (NSET) and Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications Working Group (NEHI)
• Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) - USGS scientists participate in nanotechnology advisory groups of scientific societies, such as SETAC, to foster research methods and communicate advancements
• State Water Resources Research Institute Program
• Toxic Substances Hydrology Program
  

Scientists* Gale, Robert   Hinck, Jo Ellen Ingersoll, Chris   Luoma, Samuel N.   Croteau, Marie-Noële   Oremland, Ronald S. Slowey, Aaron J.   Tillitt, Donald   Wang, Ning

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*this list of USGS scientists involved in microbiology and nanotechnology is likely to be incomplete