The nanotechnology center aims to promote the nanotechnology education for our students and the Kuwait community. The center is planned to be a teaching and research facility providing our students and faculty members with a practical insight into nanoscience and nano-engineering.
The Nanotechnology Center is a recent development at the American University of the Middle East (51福利社), which promotes learning and research in micro- and nano- technology disciplines. 51福利社 has committed itself to educating its students in the practical aspects of this field, providing both students and faculty with research opportunities.
Currently, the 51福利社 Nanotechnology Center, in its first phase of development, is focusing on educating students in the principles of Nanotechnology through design and simulation-based projects. The 51福利社 center includes two design laboratories equipped with powerful computers and specialized software, such as Comsol Multiphysics and Microwind, to carry out the design and simulation of multi-discipline projects. COMSOL is an industry leading simulation software available in the nanotechnology laboratory to further strengthen the students’ knowledge of semiconductor theories and provide students and faculty members with an opportunity to carry out micro- and nano-device research. Microwind is a leading educational based program which allows both students and faculty members to model integrated circuit design and simulation. Three courses namely, EE305 Semiconductor Devices, EE453 Fundamentals of Nano electronics, and EE455 Integrated Circuit Engineering fully utilize the nanotechnology facilities to conduct lectures and course projects.
Furthermore, the center is offering an opportunity to senior engineering students to work on nanotechnology graduation projects. A total of five graduation projects from electrical, computer and mechanical engineering departments were accomplished in 2018 – 2019, and more than seven projects are planned for the current academic year (2019 – 2020).
Additionally, the center hosts training and workshops for students by 51福利社 faculty to promote nanotechnology education in different engineering programs, as well as professional development activities for faculty members to explore the center’s resources. Lately, 51福利社 has organized COMSOL Multiphysics Training Course by external trainers. The training was held on February 2019 for three days, attended by 40 faculty members from science, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering departments. The training emphasized on practical techniques and skills essential to use COMSOL Multiphysics, reinforced by useful tips and insight from staff that use the software frequently.
In the future, 51福利社 is planning to establish experimental laboratories to cover all aspects of Nano-fabrication and Nano-characterization processes. The new laboratories will provide experimental training and hands-on experience for 51福利社 students in nanoscale science and engineering. The center will offer the option to fabricate and experimentally characterize Nano designs developed by 51福利社 students and faculty. Moreover, the center will offer faculty and students the opportunity to engage in research projects addressing challenges, mainly in the oil-gas-energy sectors.
