Nanotechnologists

Ask your school counselor or science teacher to arrange for you to job shadow a nanotechnologist. This will provide you with a chance to learn about the typical job duties of nanotechnologists and learn about the latest scientific breakthroughs in nanotechnology. Participate in information interviews with nanotechnologists. In such an interview—which can be conducted in-person, on the phone, or through video-conferencing technology—you will get the opportunity to ask nanotechnologists about their job duties, work environment, likes and dislikes about their careers, educational training, and other topics that will help you to learn more about the field.

The Internet has a wealth of introductory information about nanotechnology and chemistry. Here are a few suggestions that will help you to get started:

• Nanotechnology: Big Things from a Tiny World: https://www.nano.gov/sites/default/files/pub_resource/Nanotechnology_Big_Things_Brochure_web_0.pdf
• AZoNano: https://www.azonano.com
• TryNano.org: http://www.trynano.org
• About Nanotechnology: https://www.nano.gov/about-nanotechnology
• Explore Chemistry: http://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/education/whatischemistry.html

Other effective strategies include joining the Technology Student Association (https://tsaweb.org) and reading books and journals about nanotechnology. You should also compete in nanotechnology and chemistry competitions such as the U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (https://www.acs.org/education/olympiad.html). Information on other science competitions can be found at https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/science-fair/science-fair-directory.

Finally, participate in nanotechnology and science summer classes and programs at colleges and universities. Some schools may offer programs in nanomedicine, bionanotechnology, and renewable energy. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.