Boffins prepare for UK NanoForum 2007

Nanotechnology experts and entrepreneurs from around the world will gather in London at the UK NanoForum 2007 later this month.

The event will showcase some of the latest nanotechnology advances, and strengthen ties between the UK and other partners in the industry.

NanoForum 2007 will bring together more than 130 international delegates, 50 UK exhibitors and 200 UK delegates to highlight what the UK nanotechnology industry and academia has to offer.

The UK nanotechnology industry is one of the fastest growing and most innovative in the world, and is forecast to grow by 44 per cent over the next 12 to 15 years.

Nanotechnology contributes an estimated £23bn per year to the UK economy and there are more than 1,400 companies in the field, many of which are university spin-outs.

"Some foreign companies have already discovered the benefits of working with the UK nanotech industry," said Lord Digby Jones of Birmingham, Minister of State for Trade and Investment.

"Among the international delegates coming to the conference are representatives from universities and companies from all over the world. They will see the very best that UK nanotech has to offer."

Many of the international delegates will undertake a tour of the UK to see research being developed at various sites around the country.

"Earlier this year the British and Indian governments initiated a Joint Economic Trade Committee Nanotechnology Working Group to share understanding and accelerate bilateral progress in this exciting field," said Lord Jones.

"British firms can benefit from international research in developed and high-growth markets, while international visitors will see the benefits of forming partnerships in this field of science."