The center’s goal is to study structures at the molecular and atomic levels. To this end, part of the remodeling included an atomic force microscope–a device that can show an object only one nanometer in diameter.

Many believe that nanotechnologies will lead to even smaller electronics and eventually the capability of producing biological bone and skin replacements. Siegel stated that the renovations “are providing an important core for the center about which our exciting interdisciplinary activities can flourish at Rensselaer.”