What is the Materials World Network? The Materials World Network began development after members of the materials science community voiced specific networking and collaboration needs as a result of international workshops held around the world. In response to this need, the Materials World Network will provide a collection of materials science-related networks, beginning with a Global Nanotechnology Network (GNN), to bring together scientists, engineers, technologists, and educators who are engaged in global materials research, education and technology.
The Materials World Network will operate in "real space" by holding technical meetings and workshops around the world. It will also operate in "virtual space," by facilitating meetings, discussions and collaborations through a series of International Virtual Institutes (IVIs) residing within the cyber infrastructure of the World Wide Web (WWW).
Basic Network Components Topical networks that focus on specific issues will form the intellectual structure and basic components of the Materials World Network. Along with the Global Nanotechnology Network (GNN), upcoming network topics may include Energy, Materials for Security, Environment, and Education. Government Agencies such as the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) provide support and funding. Information Technology Engineers and Data Managers at Northwestern University created the electronic networking systems of the Materials World Network. As the Network expands, specialists from the entire materials science community will contribute to its design and function, creating and maintaining its information reservoirs.
