While many definitions for nanotechnology or nanotech, exist, the National Nanotechnology Initiative calls it "nanotechnology" only if it involves all of the following:

1. Research and technology development at the atomic, molecular or macromolecular levels, in the length scale of approximately 1 - 100 nanometer range.

2. Creating and using structures, devices and systems that have novel properties and functions because of their small and/or intermediate size.

3. Ability to control or manipulate on the atomic scale.

Medical researchers work at the micro- and nano-scales to develop new drug delivery methods, therapeutics and pharmaceuticals. For instance, DNA, our genetic material, is in the 2.5 nanometer range, while red blood cells are approximately 2.5 micrometers.

NEWS RELEASE

President Bush signs bill authorizing U.S. nanotechnology program

December 3, 2003—President Bush today signed the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act, which recently passed the House (H.R. 766) and the Senate (S. 189) with overwhelming support.

This legislation puts into law programs and activities supported by the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), one of the President’s highest multi-agency research and development (R&D) priorities. The authorization bill calls for $3.7 billion for nanotechnology R&D for FY 2005-2008 for five of the 16 agencies comprising the existing NNI: the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

The legislation also requires the creation of research centers, education and training efforts, studies into the societal and ethical consequences of nanotechnology, and activities directed toward transferring technology into the marketplace. Finally, the bill sets up advisory committees and regular program reviews, and delineates additional tasks for the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office.

“The 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act is important recognition for this new field of science and technology for the progress and future of the US economy and society in the next decades,” said Mihail C. Roco, chairman of the Nanoscale Science, Engineering and Technology (NSET) Subcommittee of the National Science and Technology Committee, and senior advisor for nanotechnology at the National Science Foundation.

House Science Committee Chairman Sherwood Boehlert (R-NY) and Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA) co-sponsored the House legislation. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and George Allen (R-VA) were the Senate co-sponsors.

Congress must pass an appropriations bill for the NNI activities mandated in the legislation before funds will be allocated. The President’s 2004 Budget provides $849 million for the multi-agency National Nanotechnology Initiative, a 9.8 percent increase over 2003.