New programmes in nanomaterials
G. KRISHNAKUMAR
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Cochin University of Science and Technology is introducing new programmes in nanomaterials and devices and renewable energy engineering.
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NANO TUBES ON A SHEET: Nanotechnology is an emerging area of study.
The Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) is planning to step up research in emerging areas like nanomaterials and devices and alternative energy. The move is part of the ongoing efforts to elevate the university into a higher educational institution with potential for excellence.
CUSAT is awaiting approval from the University Grants Commission for getting financial assistance under the commission’s ‘university with potential for excellence scheme’.
Ph.D. and M.Sc. programmes in the field of nanomaterials and devices will be introduced. The proposed curriculum offers Ph.D. and Masters degrees in selected science and engineering streams pertaining to nanoelectronic; optoelectronic; optical; nano or micro-electro-mechanical; nano or micro-opto-electro-mechanical; energy; and nanobiological fields.
Multiple student entry channels will be designed to accommodate students from undergraduate and graduate educational background in physics; chemistry; biology; computer science; and electrical, mechanical, chemical and biochemical engineering.
The proposed cross-disciplinary Ph.D. and M.Sc. curriculum integrates the fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, computer science and biology with cross cutting fields of nanosciences, nanoengineering and nanotechnology. The attempt is to provide a comprehensive portfolio of courses in basic science and engineering related to design, growth and properties of nanomaterials, said Joy Job Kulavelil, Syndicate member, and chairman of the Committee for Re-structuring of Science Programmes offered by the university.
Significant emphasis within each discipline is being placed upon the science and technology know-how for atomic-scale material modelling; characterisation; and metrology aimed at developing the fundamental skills necessary for independent and original research.
Some of the research areas identified include molecular materials and architectures; optoelectronic materials; architectures and devices; nanosystem sciences and technologies; thin film single and multilayered material structures; nanomaterials for nanotechnology; and nanoscale materials characterisation. The faculty of science will take the lead in fostering educational programmes in alternative energy research. Dr. Kulavelil said that CUSAT’s strength in research in core areas will be channelled effectively for the programme.
M.Tech. programme
CUSAT has plans to introduce a new integrated Master of Technology programme in renewable energy engineering. The goal of the programme is to educate engineering students in the application of mechanical, electrical systems, computer and environmental engineering and science principles to analyse and solve industrial problems related to energy engineering.
The programme has been designed to train engineers so that they develop technical and analytical skills for designing, building and operating sustainable and reliable energy systems that link generation, distribution and end use in an environmentally efficient way.
Students enrolled in the programme will learn how to apply quantitative, analytical and design skills to solve problems in sustainable energy systems in order to construct new components and systems for energy applications.
The main objectives will be achieved through a structured programme that includes a combination of course work in mathematics; natural and life sciences; applied engineering; and design, besides elective courses in arts, culture, humanities and social sciences.
The programme also includes aspects of directed and individual study, supervised project work, extensive laboratory and industrial field experience. Laws and ethics of engineering profession; health and safety; the impact and role of science and technology in society; and ethics and standards in the field of energy engineering will be part of the learning module.
The proposed programme will utilise the expertise, facilities and courses of the departments of physics, applied chemistry, mathematics, biotechnology and instrumentation.
Postgraduates in the field are much in demand in various industrial organisations and government agencies. These include power utilities that are responsible for generating energy from renewable sources and distributing energy through smart grids; and the emerging service industries specialising in enhancing energy efficiency.
Graduates of the programme will have a firm foundation in current energy sources and methods for production, delivery and end use, said university authorities.
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