Nanotechnologies

EPFL’s School of Engineering is at the cutting edge of nanotechnology research, spearheading innovations that span diverse fields such as electronics and medicine. Our multidisciplinary teams are devoted to creating and refining nanoscale materials and devices with unparalleled functionalities.

Learn more about nanotechnologies

Nanotechnology research at EPFL’s School of Engineering is dedicated to crafting groundbreaking materials and devices at the nanoscale, driving significant advancements in fields such as electronics and healthcare.

Our experts

Our specialists excel in the design, fabrication, and analysis of nanomaterials, including nanoparticles, nanowires, and nanoscale coatings. Their research is pivotal in advancing technologies like quantum computing, nanoscale sensors, and precision drug delivery.

Our laboratories

Our advanced laboratories provide the ideal environment for groundbreaking research in nanotechnologies. These facilities support high-precision fabrication, comprehensive structural analysis, and detailed material characterization, turning innovative ideas into practical solutions.

Our spinoffs

Discover the innovative ventures stemming from our ecosystem, focused on nanotechnology. These dynamic startups are developing revolutionary applications ranging from advanced electronics to novel medical treatments.

Centers

We work in close partnership with leading research facilities and institutes both within EPFL and globally to expand the frontiers of nanotechnology. These collaborations drive interdisciplinary research and fast-track the development of pioneering solutions to meet societal challenges.

Education

Explore exceptional opportunities for education, research, and practical experience in nanotechnologies at the School of Engineering. Become part of the next generation of innovators, contributing to a future where advanced nanotechnologies open new possibilities and enhance lives.

NEWS

Keep up with the latest discoveries and developments in nanotechnology from EPFL’s School of Engineering. Our researchers are at the forefront of innovations in quantum computing, nanoscale sensors, and targeted drug delivery. Visit our news section for insights into the cutting-edge research transforming the future of nanotechnology.

Yunfei Teng. 2025 EPFL/Titouan Veuillet CC BY SA

Yunfei Teng wins 2025 EDMI Thesis Award

— The Commission of the Doctoral Program in Microsystems and Microelectronics (EDMI) has selected Yunfei Teng to receive the 2025 Doctoral Thesis Award in Microsystems and Microelectronics.

Sandro Carrara (center) with IEEE Sensors Council Executive Committee members Deepak Uttamchandani (left) and Andrei Shkel (right) © 2025 IEEE Sensors Conference

Sandro Carrara receives 2025 IEEE John Vig Award

— Sandro Carrara, head of the Bio/CMOS Interfaces Laboratory, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 IEEE Sensors Council John Vig Meritorious Service Award. This prestigious recognition was given for his outstanding contributions as Editor-in-Chief of the IEEE Sensors Journal and for pioneering research in the emerging field of memristive sensors.

A silicon oil droplet bouncing above a vibrating mica surface. 2025 EMSI LFMI EPFL CC BY SA

The tiny droplets that bounce without bursting

— EPFL researchers have discovered that a droplet of liquid can bounce for several minutes – and perhaps indefinitely – over a vibrating solid surface. The seemingly simple observation has big implications for physics and chemistry.

Professor and IMT50 committee president Christophe Ballif. 2025 Michael Mitchell EPFL CC BY SA

Microcity Building celebrates 50 years of microengineering

— On September 4th, EPFL’s Neuchâtel campus celebrated the 50th anniversary of microengineering at the school with a milestone event uniting 450 alumni, engineers, and representatives from politics and industry.

Small amino acids (red) ‘screen’ attraction of proteins (yellow) to other molecules. 2025 SuNMIL EPFL CC BY SA

Scientists uncover key stabilizing role of small molecules

— Biologists have long known that amino acids can help stabilize proteins, for example as additives to pharmaceutical formulations. In trying to understand why this works, EPFL and MIT researchers have discovered a fundamental stabilizing effect of all small molecules, creating exciting possibilities for controlling particles in solution.

All news

VIDEOS

Watch our videos to gain insights from EPFL’s foremost researchers in nanotechnology. Learn about the latest breakthroughs in nanoscale materials, devices, and other transformative applications. Join us as we explore the science and technology driving nanotechnology innovation and see how our work is shaping the future.

Combining AI and Nanotechnology to Probe the Biomolecular World

A plasma-based nanodevice to generate powerful terahertz waves

Under the skin, a tiny laboratory

New imaging method gives live glimpse into how cells work

A microscope to observe cellular activity, one molecule at a time

Harnessing blood flow to navigate endovascular microrobots

New nanowire architectures boost computers’ processing power

Smart microrobots that can adapt to their surroundings

Can materials mimic the human body? | Elison Matioli | TEDxArendal