Program Overview

Introduction to Nanotechnology Engineering

The Nanotechnology Engineering Program at the University of Waterloo is a collaborative program between Chemical Engineering, Electric and Computer Engineering, and Chemistry, combining the skillset of all three disciplines. Our program ranks as number one in Canada for Nanotechnology according to the U.S. News and World Report Best Global Universities.

Program Overview

Nanotechnology Engineering involves materials science and engineering, chemistry, physics, biology, and medicine. Nanotechnology impacts many industries, ranging from medical to pharmaceuticals, electronics to automotive, and communications.

Fun Facts about the Nanotechnology Engineering Program

• The Nanotechnology Engineering Program was launched in 2005
• This program at the University of Waterloo is the first accredited Nanotechnology Engineering Program in Canada
• There are more than 500 students currently enrolled in our program
• We have a dedicated clean room with multimillion-dollar cutting-edge equipment for hands-on experiential learning

Specializations

A specialization is available to interested students but not required. There are four specializations in the Nanotechnology Engineering program:

• Nanobiosystems
• Nanoelectronics
• Nanofabrication
• Nanomaterials

Research and Innovation

Recent research includes:

• Developing a new process to reinforce smart, rubber-like materials for use as artificial muscles in robots
• Creating a smart bottle to combat dehydration
• Research on earth-abundant catalysts for green hydrogen production

Student Achievements

Nanotechnology Engineering students have been named as Canada’s leading innovators for two consecutive years, with students winning awards for their innovative projects and research.

University Acknowledgement

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.