Honda Celebrates Molecular Foundry 10th Anniversary

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Mike Honda (D-Silicon Valley, Calif.) was present for the groundbreaking of Berkeley Laboratory's Molecular Foundry nanoscience research facility more than a decade ago. Thursday, he spoke to VIPs and researchers at the Foundry, commemorating 10 years of nanotechnology research and development that has resulted in dozens of awards and new, innovative products.

"I am so proud of all that we have accomplished in the nanoscience world, thanks to the efforts of the researchers and scientists that have come through Molecular Foundry," said Honda. "Winning the funding to start our national push for nanotechnology research was one of the greatest achievements of my time in Congress. It is so rewarding to fight for that funding to continue when I see the amazing innovations and breakthroughs here today."

Construction of the Foundry was made possible by Honda joining with Science Committee Chairman Sherwood Boehlert in writing the Nanotechnology Research and Development Act, which created $3.7 billion in spending on nanoscience over four years.

"Today we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Molecular Foundry, a federally-funded national user facility for nanoscale science," said Jeff Neaton, director of the Molecular Foundry. "In an innovative, multidisciplinary model for research, the DOE-supported Foundry attracts world-class scientists to the Bay Area, where, in collaboration with its outstanding staff and leading edge world-unique instrumentation, they make breakthroughs and innovations in all fields of science. It is also a direct result of Congressman Honda's work on the 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act, and his continued dedication to research and education. We would like to thank him for his continued support as we recognize this milestone in our history."

Nanotech research has created hundreds of jobs in the Silicon Valley. More than 100 companies involved in nanotechnology R&D, nanomanufacturing, and the marketing of nanotechnology-based products within the Honda's 17th Congressional District.

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