The Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) is an autonomous research institute of the Government of India, dedicated to fundamental and applied research in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology. It functions under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, and is located in Mohali, Punjab.
| Type | Autonomous research institute |
|---|---|
| Established | 2013 |
| Parent body | Department of Science and Technology, Government of India |
| Location | Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali, Punjab, India |
| Field | Nanoscience and nanotechnology |
| Status | Registered society under the Societies Registration Act |
Background
INST was set up as part of the Government of India's Nano Mission, an initiative launched by the Department of Science and Technology to promote research and development in nanoscale science, engineering and technology. The institute was conceived to serve as a premier centre for interdisciplinary research bridging chemistry, physics, biology, materials science and engineering at the nanoscale.
The institute is situated in the Knowledge City campus at Sector 81, Mohali, an area that hosts other national research institutions including the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali and the National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute.
Research areas
Research at INST is organised across broad thematic areas in nanoscience, including:
- Nanomaterials and energy
- Nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology
- Quantum materials and devices
- Agricultural nanotechnology
- Nanoscale electronics, photonics and sensors
- Environmental and water-related nanotechnology
Academic programmes
INST conducts a doctoral (Ph.D.) programme in nanoscience and nanotechnology, with degrees awarded through an affiliating university arrangement. The institute also hosts postdoctoral fellows and supports short-term research training, internships and visiting researcher schemes for students from across India.
Governance
The institute is governed by a Governing Body and a Society, with overall academic and scientific direction provided by a Director appointed in consultation with the Department of Science and Technology. As an autonomous institute, INST receives its core funding from the central government and is overseen by DST through the Nano Mission framework.
Significance
INST is one of the dedicated national institutions established specifically for nanoscience research in India, alongside other Nano Mission centres at established universities and laboratories. Its mandate combines basic research with translational work intended to support indigenous technology development in areas such as healthcare, clean energy, agriculture and water purification.
Related topics
- Department of Science and Technology (India)
- Nano Mission
- Nanotechnology in India
- Mohali
- IISER Mohali
- List of research institutes in India
References
- Wikidata entry: Q18351683
- Department of Science and Technology, Government of India — Nano Mission