Nanotech Lab Opens At U. Of Oregon

The University of Oregon has dedicated an underground nanotechnology laboratory on its Eugene campus.

The Lorry I. Lokey Laboratories building is a research center affiliated with the Oregon Nanoscience and Microtechnologies Institute (ONAMI), a consortium that includes the University of Oregon, Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon State University, Portland State University, Pacific Northwest National Laboratories and the region's high-technology companies.

The Lokey labs will contain more than 20 ultra-high-precision metrology, probe, lithography and bio-optics instruments not generally available except at major scientific facilities, the university says.

Researchers working in the building will pursue projects related to curing human diseases such as cancer, developing cheaper solar devices, cleaning up water and the environment, and creating other products and technology.

The building also provides space for industry partners. The first occupant of the Partnership Labs is Voxtel Inc. of Beaverton, Ore., a maker of high-performance photonic devices.