ANN ARBOR—Did you think that biotech was the hot topic in science? Not any more. The newest field out there on the “bleeding edge” of science and technology is nanotechnology—the engineering of very small devices, involving materials at the submicron level.

Mildred S. Dresselhaus, an MIT physicist who is one of the nation’s leading nanotechnology researchers, will present the first Ford Motor Company Distinguished Lecture in Physics, “Frontiers in Nanoscience,” on Wednesday,
Dresselhaus will describe how materials science research is entering a new phase as researchers learn how to investigate, characterize and control the structure and properties of materials at the nanometer scale. She also will discuss some examples of research accomplishments and opportunities.

Dresselhaus and her team have attracted wide attention for their work on carbon nanotubes, which are like tiny test tubes with incredible mechanical strength and electrical properties. They may be useful in a variety of applications such as wiring in nano-scale electronic devices and as the ultimate carbon fiber. The team has also studied the electronic properties of nano-scale wires and networks made of bismuth.

Dresselhaus has long been a leader in promoting opportunities for women in science and engineering and she is an enthusiastic teacher. She says about working with students, “I like to be challenged. I welcome the hard questions and having to come up with good explanations on the spot. That’s an experience I really enjoy.”

Dresselhaus will also give a lecture, “Raman Spectroscopy from One Nanotube” on Tuesday,
Both lectures are free and open to the public. For information, call (734) 764-4437.

Ford Motor Company sponsors the Ford Lectureship in the Physics Department through a generous gift to the University of Michigan. The lectureship is a permanent tribute to the long-standing relationship between Ford Motor Company and the University of Michigan Department of Physics. To learn more about Ford Motor Company, its products and commitment to the community, visit www.ford.com

Mildred S. Dresselhauswww.ford.com