On this quadranscentennial episode of Nanovation, Vivian Ferry from the University of Minnesota joins the podcast to talk about nanophotonics -- the ability to squeeze light into and manipulate it with nanoscale objects. We talk about the use of nanophotonics in applications ranging from solar energy harvesting to catalysis and cover the litany of materials and manufacturing challenges. Show notes are available at: http://www.fillerlab.com/nanovation/archive/25 (Recorded on November 17, 2016)

***NANOVATION WILL BE ON VACATION FOR THE NEXT FEW WEEKS. SEE YOU IN 2017!***

25: Vivian Ferry - What constraints are really constraints?

Jen Dionne from Stanford University is the first guest of 2017! We focus on optical metamaterials -- engineered materials whose nanoscale architecture enables exotic interactions with light. We explore technological possibilities ranging from improved drug manufacturing to computing with photons (instead of electrons). We also learn what motivates Jen, how she picks scientific problems, and whether or not she's a superhero. Show notes are available at: http://www.fillerlab.com/nanovation/archive/26 (Recorded on December 8, 2016)

26: Jen Dionne - The light at the end of the tunnel

Bara Cola makes an encore appearance on the podcast to chat about Carbice, a company he founded to commercialize next generation heat transfer materials for cooling electronic devices. We discuss the value and challenge of maintaining business relationships, how competition from abroad is changing the playing field for technology start-ups, and the excitement surrounding a number of carbon nanotube-based products now making their way to the market. Show notes are available at: http://www.fillerlab.com/nanovation/archive/27 (Recorded on January 26, 2017)

27: Bara Cola - Naive is not a strong enough word

Nanotechnology is a more precise way of doing everything — making things, assembling things, measuring things, sorting things, etc. From construction and energy to health and information technology, few industries will be immune to its influence. The Nanovation podcast is a forum to address the big questions, big challenges, and big opportunities of nanotechnology. Topics lie at the intersection of nanoscience, manufacturing, technology, business, and society. The podcast is conversational in format and aimed at a general, yet technically-savvy audience. Happy listening ...

Nanovation Podcast