The Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) has marked the opening of a new nanofabrication lab at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). This new facility forms part of GOED’s ongoing support for innovation and economic development within the state of Nevada.
Housed in the College of Engineering, the Davidson Foundation Cleanroom aims to boost UNR’s role in applied research and workforce development. Its focus aligns with Nevada’s growing involvement in high-tech industries such as semiconductors, renewable energy, and biomedical advancements.
The launch of the lab closely follows UNR’s recognition as an Innovation & Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. This recognition highlights the university’s significant role in regional economic engagement and innovation, reinforcing GOED’s commitment to fostering growth through higher education.
Dr. Indira Chatterjee, interim dean of the UNR College of Engineering, stated, “The Nanofabrication Lab will revolutionize engineering education and research in Northern Nevada by providing state-of-the-art facilities.” She noted that the facility will help attract top students and improve learning experiences in manufacturing techniques, contributing to workforce development and technological research.
Karsten Heise, senior director of strategic programs at GOED, commented, “The launch of this nanofabrication lab is a clear demonstration of what Nevada’s Innovation Based Economic Development strategy looks like in practice.” Heise emphasized the lab’s role in fostering collaboration among research initiatives, industry, and economic development. The lab will also be part of two public-private partnerships, SmartNV and Recharge Nevada, aimed at strengthening Nevada’s position in the semiconductor and critical material supply chains.
GOED, established by the Nevada Legislature in 2011, is focused on promoting economic growth across the state. The office works to encourage business expansion, entrepreneurial ventures, and community development.
SmartNV and Recharge Nevada are collaborative consortia supporting semiconductor technology and lithium battery innovation, aimed at enhancing economic resiliency and U.S. technology leadership. SmartNV concentrates on semiconductor materials and technology, while Recharge Nevada focuses on building a sustainable innovation ecosystem around lithium battery technologies.
