Nano Ethics Network

Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics

In keeping with Aarhus University's mission, the Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics is an interdisciplinary platform. Three study areas of Aarhus University provide faculty to the Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics to provide the interdisciplinary platform for research and education in the field of bioethics and nanoethics. These three study areas are health science, theology, and science. The Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics is involved in many research areas, including the foundations of bioethics and biotechnology, human ethics, nanoethics, health technology assessment, environmental ethics, and animal ethics.

Nano Ethics Network

The Nano Ethics Network is primarily a European network. The purpose of the Nano Ethics Network is to contribute to the development of the ethics of nanotechnology, and to advance international collaboration and interdisciplinary dialogue between the many fields of participants contributing to the research, development, and the ethical and societal implications of nanotechnology. Its mission to fulfill these obligations includes holding an annual workshop and publication.

To date, the Nano Ethics Network has held three workshops. The first was on September 22–23, 2006, at the University of Aarhus in Denmark. The topic of was Ethical Perspectives of Nanomedicine. The Nano Ethics Network held its second annual workshop on November 2–3, 2007 titled, “Toxicological and Environmental Aspects of Nanotechnology.” It was also held at the University of Aarhus. The third workshop was held on October 31-November 1, 2008 discussing Questions of Justice in Nanotechnological Development(s). The Nano Ethics Network also started publishing a newsletter in November 2006, and releases it approximately three times a year. They are available on the Website of the Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics. The Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics has also had much success in publishing materials relevant to its mission. In addition to several dissertations, the Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics has published several books and many articles relevant to emerging issues in nanoethics.

The Centre for Bioethics and Nanoethics has a corporate structure. Professor Svend Anderson, Doctor of Theology, serves as the Chairman of the Board and Bente Kejser is the Secretary. Aarhus University prides itself on developing unique, alternative programs for research and education that span a multitude of subjects for the purpose of benefiting students, researchers, and those in the governmental and the business communities. These interdisciplinary combinations provide unique opportunities to explore and research novel fields. Aarhus University contains various institutes, departments, and academic units, organized into nine main academic areas. These nine academic areas cover the entire spectrum of research, including basic research, applied research, strategic research, and research-based advice to authorities. Aarhus University study areas combine research and education to ensure the depth of their programs.