Can you tell me about the Micro/Nano Fluidics Fundamentals Focus (MF3) Center?
The MF3 Center was initiated in 2006 and is based at the University of California with the participation of nine other US universities. The mission of the centre is to create a focused community, composed of academic, government and commercial institutions, dedicated to developing the basic science and technology of micro- and nanoscale fluidics and providing solutions to commercial problems. “In essence, we are attempting to bridge the gap between fundamental research at universities and product-driven research within companies”In essence, we are attempting to bridge the gap between fundamental research at universities and product-driven research within companies. This is often thought of as the ‘valley of death’ in terms of technology development. It happens when a brilliant idea is proposed and fundamental research is carried out in an academic environment; yet the timing and relevance to the company’s product plans are weak. On the other hand, companies typically don’t have the man
