Nanofabrication Lab opens on SciTech Campus

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George Mason University officials, faculty, regional economic leaders, government, and business partners gathered at SciTech Campus on May 3, 2024, to cut the ribbon on the new $3.75 million Nanofabrication Facility (NFF).

Vice President for Research Innovation and Economic Impact Andre Marshall welcomed guests. President Gregory Washington and other special guests followed. After the ribbon cutting, attendees enjoyed a first-hand look at the new state-of-the-art space.

The NFF is the only cleanroom facility and resource for partners in Northern Virginia. It offers hands-on nanofabrication workforce training in research applications that will accelerate the growth of high-tech companies.

Tannia Telento, regional director for U.S. Senator Mark Warner’s office offered remarks from the senator. In the remarks, Senator Warner said, “The Nanofabrication Facility will play an important role in education and research, which is integral to securing the supply chain, bringing greater transparency to the microelectronics ecosystem, training tomorrow's leaders, and ensuring our long-term national security. I am excited to see the advancements that will come from the establishment of this facility right here in Virginia. The (NFF) will serve as a core laboratory for innovative research and development on the micro- and nano-scale.

Faculty from the College of Engineering and Computing and the College of Science have already taught classes in the facility, this summer the facility will host camps, and in the fall workforce training will begin.

Gregory Washington and attendees at the Nanofabrication Facility grand opening
George Mason University President Gregory Washington and Shawn Wagoner, the Nanofabrication Faciilty's lab manager cut the ribbon at the grand opening of the facility. Photo by Creative Services.
Tannia Telento, Regional Director for U.S. Senator Mark Warner’s Office
Tannia Telento, regional director for U.S. Senator Mark Warner’s office, shakes hands with President Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding
Vice President Andre Marshall (on right) stands outside the clean room.
Vice President Andre Marshall (on right) and Danny Vargas of GO Virginia stand outside the clean room. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding
Shawn Wagoner provides explains equipment
Lab Manager Shawn Wagoner explains the equipment to a group of attendees during the facility tour. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding