The nanotechnology KTN announces itself open for business with the appointment of new recruits. The new director, Dr. Alec Reader, takes the helm along with four new starters.

The Centre for Process Innovation, (CPI) has recently made a number of key appointments to the Nanotechnology KTN including the Director and three Theme Managers to further strengthen the Nanotechnology Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) team and support UK industries. This enthusiastic and close knit team is working in new ways to deliver real benefit for UK wealth creation in new and emerging technologies. The Nanotechnology KTN is national network which supersedes the MNT Network and supports the UK Micro and Nanotechnologies (MNT) community by informing, linking and facilitating innovation through a combination of events, focus groups, information dissemination and technology brokerage. This network will be delivered in parallel, with both Nanotechnology KTN led activities and strong collaborations with other leading organisations, to provide this valuable service for the benefit of the UK. Aiding the transfer of knowledge between industry and academia, the Nanotechnology KTN offers companies dealing in small scale technology connectivity to information on funding initiatives, existing projects, centres of excellence, new processes, patents, as well as keeping up to date with industry regulation. The benefits of nanotechnology applications are readily communicated to prospective end users within the network, and into industry sectors nationally and internationally. The Nanotechnology KTN will also assist the 23 UK MNT Capital facilities in achieving the promise of realisable and profitable open access facilities in partnership with the regional development agencies (RDA) and devolved administrations and assemblies of Scotland and Wales. The recently appointed KTN Director, Dr Alec Reader, brings thirty years commercial experience, working most recently in plastic electronics with Philips of the Nederlands, Innos and Polymer Vision. As a member of the senior management team and board at Innos, he was instrumental in bridging the gap between industry needs and academic expertise in the fabrication sector and firmly establishing its reputation for R&D expertise in the UK.

Commenting on his new appointment, Alec said: “The Nanotechnology KTN is an important part of the innovation process in the sector and has the potential to have a real impact on the fortunes of the UK economy.” In addition three Nano-KTN Theme Managers have also been appointed. Keith Robson, James Johnstone and Martin Kemp will work with industry, academia and trade bodies to promote the successful exploitation and commercialisation of MNT in the UK. This will involve transferring technology, facilitating innovation, ensuring the provision of suitable demonstrator facilities and the encouragement of supply chain collaborations. A further key role of the new Theme Managers will be to develop and coordinate Focus Groups to provide thought leadership within the various constituent sectors of MNT as well as contributing to the creation of regional and national UK policy. Dr Keith Robson brings over 25 years’ experience in micro and nanotechnology, with a comprehensive track record of delivering innovation and business growth in organisations including 3M, Tioxide and ICI. He will oversee the manufacturing and processing activities of the network. Dr Martin Kemp has managed major research projects in defence and for the European Union, specialising in composites and smart materials. Prior to joining the Nanotechnology KTN, he worked for 5 years as an International Technology Promoter for the DTI Global Watch Service, where he specialised in technology transfer of nanotechnologies. He has responsibility to coordinate efforts in the energy and creative industries. Dr James Johnstone, who will take the role of Metrology Theme Manager for the KTN, has worked within the field for over 10 years including roles at the National Physical Laboratory and the Department of Trade and Industry. He has also worked closely with organisations wishing to participate in the EC Framework 7 Programme. Ms. Natasha Taylor has been appointed as Marketing Manager for the KTN and will handle all marketing and events responsibilities for the network. She is always happy to receive details Dr Toby Gill continues as Project Manager for the Nanotechnology KTN having previously worked with the UK MNT Network, the organisation succeeded by the Nanotechnology KTN. This ensures continuity between both initiatives. He has substantial experience in delivery of the integrated web platform that all the UK KTN projects use. Mike Pitkethly, CPI deputy CEO and former interim KTN Director added, “We are delighted to have the new recruits on board who bring substantial market experience. Through the KTN we work with a diverse range of industries and networks, providing us with the unique position of promoting the exciting possibilities of cross-sector developments.” Established by the Technology Strategy Board, the Nanotechnology KTN is a technology development and consulting network.