The Nanotechnology Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) has made a number of appointments to its Centre for Process Innovation (CPI), thus announcing itself fully operational. Leading the effort as Director is Dr. Alec Reader (pictured), who worked with Philips (The Netherlands), Innos and Polymer Vision in the field of plastic electronics. 

The KTN is a knowledge network for the transfer of nanotechnology-related information between the industry and academia. It supports the established UK MNT (Micro and Nanotechnologies) community via a series of events, technology brokerage and focus groups for the advancement of new and developing technologies in the area.

Dr. Reader will oversee new recruits Keith Robson, James Johnstone and Martin Kemp who have been appointed to the role of Theme Managers for the Nano-KTN. The role of Theme Manager will involve liaising with industry, academia and industry trade companies to ensure successful exploitation of the MNT in the UK.

Dr. Keith Robson brings over 25 years of experience from companies such as 3M, Tioxide and ICI, and will take on responsibility for supervising manufacturing and processing activities for the KTN.

Dr. Kemp recently spent five years working with the DTI Global Watch Service in the role of International Technology Promoter. He has managed major research projects for EU defense purposes, and will take up the role of coordinating activities in the energy and creative industries for the KTN.

Dr. Johnstone has worked with the National Physical Laboratory and the Department of Trade and Industry and also with applicants to the EC Framework 7 Programme. His role within the KTN will be as Metrology Theme Manager.

The KTN’s staff base also includes Ms. Natasha Taylor, who assumes the role of Marketing Manager; Dr. Toby Gill, who continues in his role as Project Manager; and Mike Pitkethly, CPI deputy CEO and former interim KTN Director.

By Síle Mc Mahon