An NSF-sponsored workshop on the topic "Analytical Instrumentation for the Next Millenium" held on March 5/6th 1999 identified new instruments as essential tools if the United States was to continue to lead the world in science and technology. This recommendation emerged from consideration of the importance of a developing thrust in understanding the world at the molecular level. The workshop report recommended a major program in measurement science as a necessary vehicle to pursue these goals. Click here to go to the executive summary or final report from that workshop.

The AINM-Materials Workshop carried out a more detailed review of this recommendation specifically within the field of materials research, broadly construed to reflect areas represented by the Chemistry (CHE) and Materials Research (DMR) Divisions at NSF. The workshop surveyed present capabilities and assessed future needs. The initial AINM workshop argued the need for high performance instrumentation, low-cost robust instrumentation and high-throughput instruments. Overarching considerations included the problem of handling large data sets and very rapid data acquisition, the promotion of synergy between instrument development and fundamental understanding achieved through measurement as well as the integration of measurement science into the intellectual core of graduate education and training for scientists and engineers.

Given the context of these considerations, the AINM-Materials Workshop focused on analytical (i.e., characterization) tools but not those tools specifically targeted for materials growth and processing. Thus MBE, MOCVD and similar instrumentation was considered not to be within the purview of the panel whereas tools used in monitoring growth processes (e.g. X-ray reflectivity, RHEED) were within that purview. Instrumentation for measurements of materials under extreme conditions was included whereas the methods of achieving those extreme conditions were not included. Finally, analytical tools based on major facilities such as synchrotron radiation, neutron scattering and high magnetic fields were included.

The participants were asked to consider and recommend action in areas where inadequate activity in instrumental development is perceived, to review the ways in which development currently occurs and propose alternative ways if needed. The workshop also sought to identify gaps in the educational programs at the graduate level and to recommend remedial action, to consider funding mechanisms and, if necessary to propose new and different programs in measurement science that would remedy perceived inadequacies.

Workshop Information

Click here for links to the workshop program, workshop report, and logistical information.

Workshop Organizers

Drew Evans     cevans@cea.com
                       408/530-3500

Tom Mallouk   tom@chem.psu.edu
                       814/863-9637

John Silcox     jsilcox@ccmr.cornell.edu
                       607/255-3332