However, working from the other direction, starting with the essentials and building up, is a concept that only in the last decade has shifted from science fiction to scientific reality. New branches of chemistry, physics and engineering have emerged and united to investigate novel directions in material and device fabrication. Through manipulation at the atomic and molecular levels, scientists can design materials to hold unique and valuable properties. Materials can be made lighter, stronger, cheaper to manufacturer. Mesoscale science is presently at its infancy worldwide.
Research centers dedicated to mesoscale science are few in number but increasing steadily.
The effort stems from the recognition that the development, characterization and exploitation of novel materials based on the assembly of molecular components carries exceptional scientific and technological promise. Beyond providing the physical infrastructure for high quality research, the center will serve as a nurturing atmosphere for true collaboration between world-class scientists from BGU and abroad. Core Concepts Manufactured products and sophisticated devices are made from materials. Since the days of stone tools and flint knives, humans have been manipulating atoms in statistical herds by casting, milling, grinding, and chipping materials at the expense of true precision. Only recently, scientists have been able to rearrange molecules one by one - with every atom in just the right place.