In fall 2024, the School of Engineering Dean and the Vice Provost and Dean of Research agreed to unify SNF and SNSF into a single, integrated nano shared user facility. The merger will bring together two world-class teams to advance nanotechnology research and education at Stanford and beyond. Our vision for the unified facility is to build on the strengths of both SNF and SNSF while creating new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and growth.
The vision and plan were presented in a Town Hall meeting for SNF and SNSF staff in January of 2025.
Our Vision
As a premier center for nanotechnology, we empower researchers with state-of-the-art scientific instrumentation, advanced laboratory facilities, and expert staff support. We catalyze collaborations and train the next generation of scientists and engineers to drive transformative advancements at the nanoscale.
A merged SNSF/SNF will provide comprehensive facilities for the Stanford research community to accelerate discovery and advance world class research. We aim to do this by:
Embedding Quality Principles: Ensure high-performing equipment and reliable expert services, while being responsible stewards of university resources.
Fostering a Modern Digital Community: Develop a robust physical as well as IT infrastructure for data capture and sharing to enhance collaboration and innovation.
Integrating Education and Research: Provide hands-on training and resources that equip students for research excellence. Lower barriers to entry and success by providing effective, accessible training and access to knowledge for all users.
Merger Updates
Please join the leaders of the nano@stanford merger staff working groups for a lab member town hall on May 5, 2025 from 11:30 am-12:30 pm in the AllenX Auditorium, followed by pizza in the courtyard. Questions and feedback can be submitted in advance using this form. The town hall presentation slides are linked here.
We have established staff working groups to plan and implement various aspects of the merged nano@stanford facility. We invite your feedback and even participation. Feel free to contact your favorite staffers from this list of working groups about your interest.