EU Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik answered questions from children on nanotechnology when he visited the nanoTruck in Brussels on 15 June.

A German initiative, the nanoTruck is a mobile science theme park exhibiting some of the latest science and technology at the nano dimension in a variety of disciplines. Inside the truck are magnetic fluids, measuring instruments that make atoms visible, and scratch-proof coatings for cars. The organisers encourage visitors try out the exhibits themselves, making it an ideal place to introduce the younger generation to the wonders of nanoscience and nanotechnology. The children present unanimously agreed that a visit to the nanoTruck was preferable to a classroom lesson!

Questions ranged from why nanotechnology is important, whether it can be studied at university, and what the job prospects are for graduates of nanotechnology.

Mr Potocnik reassured the children that there will be no shortage of jobs for those with knowledge of nanoscience and nanotechnology, due to the cutting edge nature of these fields.

The children confessed that they had not heard of nanotechnology before being invited to visit the nanoTruck, to which the Commissioner replied: 'Frankly, before I took this job, it was the same for me! But in a few years you will hear all about it because it is very promising.'

The nanoTruck is funded by the German Ministry for Education and Research. The truck began its journey in 2004, and due to its phenomenal success will now continue touring until the end of 2006. It is on the road for 240 days per year, and typically visits around 100 locations. It is always accompanied by PhD students from different disciplines so that all exhibits can be explained to visitors. The truck received over 100,000 visitors in 2004.

For further information on the nanoTruck, please visit:
http://www.nanoTruck.de