New quantum-nano fabrication and characterization facility lab advances research and enhances community innovation and collaboration.
The University of Waterloo has officially opened its state-of-the-art Inert Atmosphere Fabrication Lab (IAFL) as part of the Quantum-Nano Fabrication and Characterization Facility (QNFCF).
Many materials used in quantum-nano fabrication can easily react with oxygen, so they must be assembled in a special, oxygen-free environment. This lab was carefully designed and built by the QNFCF team, with help from Angstrom Engineering and JEOL USA, to support the quantum research community at the University of Waterloo and beyond.
Managed by QNFCF, the lab offers open access and professional maintenance to benefit researchers and industry partners through the Quantum Colaboratory initiative. It offers training and consultation for those who want to learn how to use the facility for their projects.
The grand opening event, held at the Research Advancement Centre (RAC) building in David Johnston Research and Technology Park, showcased the facility's cutting-edge capabilities and emphasized its role in fostering a vibrant research community.
Today is really all about building community. We are not just advancing scientific research but also creating an environment where collaboration and training go hand in hand.
Waterloo’s focus on interdisciplinary and interconnected research allows technologies to be applied in new areas and industries for the positive advancement of humanity. The event highlighted the facility's role in pushing the boundaries of nanofabrication and characterization, promising exciting developments in the field and strengthening the quantum research community overall.