Belarus — applied nanoelectromagnetics
Nanoscale electrical and optical behaviours are of great interest for a variety of applications ranging from transmission and processing of electromagnetic signals to quantum computing. Achievement of a critical mass of scientists pursuing related topics has led to the establishment of a new field of nanophysics called nanoelectromagnetics. The EU-funded project 'Institutional development of applied nanoelectromagnetics: Belarus in ERA widening' (BY NANOERA) put the Institute for Nuclear Problems of Belarusian State University (INP BSU) in the game. The nanoelectromagnetics research programme at INP BSU has proved particularly fruitful. Scientists have published more than 50 research papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals and delivered talks at numerous scientific events. The consortium organised scientific events devoted to nanoelectromagnetics both in Belarus and abroad. The highlight was the international conference 'Fundamental and Applied Nanoelectromagnetics' attracting around 1209 researchers from 19 countries to Belarus. Scientists also contributed a special section on nanoelectromagnetics in the Journal of Nanophotonics. As a result of internal progress among consortium members as well as collaboration with potential new partners, INP BSU has submitted proposals to the EU’s Seventh Framework Programme call. Several nanoelectromagnetics proposals have been approved and projects initiated. In addition, BY-NANOERA developed a strategy for INP BSU as a focus centre for nanoelectromagnetics that includes incorporation into the EU roadmap for nanoscience and nanotechnology. On a national level, INP BSU is particularly active in research programmes focused on developing nanotechnology in Belarus. The consortium has developed a prognosis on nanoelectromagnetics in both Russian and English. Their work in nanoelectromagnetics has made it a research priority for the Belarus national research strategy. EU funding of BY-NANOERA has helped establish INP BSU as a highly qualified and respected research institute in electromagnetics in both the national and international arenas. Electromagnetics is also of great import in fields such as materials science and electrical engineering. Besides enhancing the capacity of other departments in the region, project activities will attract exceptional young scientists. This will ensure a legacy that lives on way past the duration of the project itself.
Keywords
Nanoelectromagnetics, Institute for Nuclear Problems, Belarus, roadmap, strategy, proposals