The Potential of Nanotechnology. Nanotechnology refers to the ability to manipulate individual atoms and molecules, making it possible to build machines on the scale of human cells or create materials and structures from the bottom up, building in desired properties. Nanotechnology could change the way almost everything, from medicines to computers to automobile tires to objects not yet imagined, is designed and made. A National Priority.
Nanotechnology is at an exploratory stage.
Long-term, fundamental research is needed to discover new phenomena, understand the basic building blocks, develop processes and tools at the nanoscale, create innovative technologies, and educate and train a new workforce. Federal investment is critical to reaching these goals and keeping the United States at the forefront. The Administration's Commitment. The Fiscal 2001 Budget. Other agencies supporting nanotechnology include the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, National Institutes of Health, National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology.