Bio-Nanotechnology 2nd International Advanced Course 8 - 11 May 2006 Wageningen, The Netherlands Organised by The Graduate School VLAG, in co-operation with Laboratory of Physical Chemistry & Colloid Science, Laboratory of Microbiology & Laboratory of Organic Chemistry of Wageningen University (WU) |
Background
With nanoscience man is acquiring a new understanding of matter at the nanoscale. This is the scale where quantum phenomenon plays an important role and our macroscopic understanding of physics does not suffice to explain what is happening. Nanotechnology makes use of this knowledge and these effects to create structures that provide totally new functionality. Bionanotechnology combines nanotechnology with biology. Nature has provided us with nanostructures that are extremely efficient and well designed. In bionanotechnology we either make use of these biological structures or we are inspired by nature or we apply nanotechnology to living systems.
One part of bionanotechnology is the science and technology of controlled building up of new architectures from individual biomolecules and biomacromolecules. These designed architectures may possess novel functions and biomaterials properties in the dimensional range between 0.1 - 1000 nm. This rapidly evolving field uses the same building blocks exploited by nature for structural and catalytic functions and as engineering materials for construction of new materials systems. Biological macromolecules, especially polypeptides, RNA, and DNA, can be reinvented by in vitro evolution and rational design to self-assemble into desired structures, organise other materials, and provide nanoscale motions and switching.
In addition to current applications of nanotechnology like electronics, automation, super-materials, pharmaceuticals and medicine also food science and food technology already benefit from this novel multidisciplinary science. The recent developments of bionanotechnology in general and in the food industry in particular will be the focus of this course.
Target group
The course is meant for university graduates that have basic knowledge in molecular biology, biochemistry and biophysics. The course may attract microbiologists, biochemists, process engineers, food scientists and biotechnologists.
Course aim
The aim of the course is to acquire in-depth knowledge about bionanotechnology in general, and about its many potential applications in particular. Emphasis will be on the applications in food science and technology.
Course design
The course will be composed of Lectures, Case Studies, and a visit to NanoLab at the Radboud University in Nijmegen. In the lectures general aspects of nanotechnology and non-food applications will be presented, followed by the utilisation, design and assembly of biocomponents. Various techniques used in Nanotechnology will be discussed. Applications concerning sensing, structuring of food and toxicology will be dealt with.
Attention will be paid to the following aspects: surface functionalisation, measurements and biosensors, computational design, in-vitro evolution, affinity bodies, membrane technology, food structuring, and toxicology.
Provisional programme
Monday 8 May
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Wednesday 10 May
Symposium "Viruses: Exploiting Nature's own Nanoparticles". |
Course coordinators
Other faculty
Date & duration
The course will be held from May 8-11, 2006 (4 days).
On Friday May 12 a symposium is organised ("Viruses: Exploiting Nature's own Nanoparticles"). Although the symposium is not part of the course, participants are able to attend the symposium free of charge.
Study load
The study load of this course is ECTS credits.
Language
The course will be conducted in English
Location & accommodation
Lectures and demonstrations will be given at the Conference Centre "De Wageningse Berg".
For hotel accommodation, contact the Wageningse Berg: Phone: +31 317 495911.
Please mention the course code: "Bionano06", when you make a hotel reservation. The costs of a single room including breakfast are € 62.50.
Contact information
For organisational matters and registration please contact the course coordinators through:
Mrs. C. Doeswijk
The Graduate School VLAG
P.O. Box 8129
6700 EV Wageningen
The Netherlands
Telephone: +31 317 485143
Telefax: +31 317 483342
E-mail: Chantal.Doeswijk@wur.nl
More information concerning the course can be obtained from Dr. S.W.M. Kengen: (Serve.Kengen@wur.nl) and Dr. F.W.H. Kampers (Frans.Kampers@wur.nl).
The registration form must be returned before March 1, 2006. You will be notified before April 7 on acceptance of your registration and you will be sent instructions for payment, and further information.
The course fee is € 1400 (including lunches/tea/coffee and one course dinner). PhD students not affiliated with The Graduate School VLAG will be charged € 400.
Cancellations may be made free of charge until March 1, 2006. After this date the charge will be 25% of the fee paid or due. Substitutions may be made at any time.
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