The Nanoscale Informal Science Education (NISE) Network is a national community of researchers and informal science educators dedicated to fostering public awareness, engagement and understanding of nanoscale science, engineering and technology. Originally launched in 2005, the NISE Network is now led by 14 museums and universities across the nation.

As a subawardee in a lead role, the Science Museum of Minnesota (SMM) is involved with many aspects of the Network, including:

• educational programs, including development and fabrication of the yearly NanoDays kit
• the nisenet.org website
• professional development tools and guides
• research and evaluation
• NISE Net regional hub for the Midwest
• exhibit components for Nanotechnology: What's the Big Deal? (currently touring the Arkansas Discovery Network, and on display at the Museum of Science, Boston and Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland)
• Nano Mini-exhibit (under development): A hands-on, interactive exhibit that engages the public in nanoscale science, engineering and technology. SMM will fabricate up to 50 identical copies of this 350-square-foot exhibit for distribution to NISE Net partners free of charge, with the goal of reaching tens of millions of people at various institutions across the United States. SMM is developing the mini-exhibit with the Sciencenter of Ithaca, NY

Visit the NISE Network website to learn more.

View NISE Network Evaluations here.

Image Gallery

NISE Net is funded by the National Science Foundation.
Learn More

BACK TO PROJECT HISTORY