The Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN) is a global leader in discovering and developing smart and functional materials, connected devices, next generation energy systems, and therapeutics and theranostics. These discoveries by our scientists and engineers are fundamentally changing our world and helping solve some of humanity's most pressing issues. Our 285, 000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility meets the highest scientific standards for the control of vibration, electromagnetic radiation, temperature, and humidity, making it a global centre of excellence for nanotechnology and its applications.
Why is nanotechnology important? It is about creating new materials and improving ways of manufacturing products. To be more efficient, better, stronger and cheaper. Also improving the economy, environment and society. To achieve societal impact and a sustainable future, WIN has now mapped its thematic areas with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Events
WIN Industry Seminar Series: Christoph A. Krettler
WIN Industry Seminar Series: Christoph A. Krettler, a Senior Data Scientist at Enveda, on January 22, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at QNC 1501.
nano tech Japan 2026
Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN) invites researchers, startups, and industry partners to participate in nano tech Japan, one of the world’s largest nanotechnology exhibitions and conferences. This premier event brings together global leaders in nanoscience, materials, and advanced technologies to foster innovation and collaboration.
CENIDE & WIN Seminar Series on 2D-MATURE : Professor Dr.Harry Hoster
The Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN) and the Center for Nanointegration Duisberg-Essen (CENIDE) are pleased to present Professor Dr. Harry Hoster for a joint 2D-MATURE seminar.
News
WIN-ICN2 Joint Seed Funding Programme Expanded with Two Additional Projects
ICN2 and the Waterloo Institute of Nanotechnology (WIN) have expanded the funding of their joint initiative, the WIN–ICN2 Joint Seed Funding, by adding two new projects to the three announced last May. This expansion has been made possible thanks to an increase in the budget contributed by both institutions, in recognition of the outstanding scientific quality of the proposals received.
The two newly funded projects were the next highest-ranked proposals after those originally selected, according to the evaluation scores. This extension further strengthens the objectives of the WIN–ICN2 Joint Seed Funding programme, which was launched to encourage collaboration between researchers from the two institutions and lay the groundwork for future competitive international projects, particularly within the framework of the Horizon Europe research and innovation programme.
New funded projects
- MYHEAL. This project aims to develop personalised bandages for the treatment of chronic skin wounds, manufactured using 3D printing to adapt precisely to the shape of each lesion. The bandages will be based on biocompatible hydrogels and coated with an antimicrobial layer to prevent infections. MYHEAL brings together WIN’s expertise in 3D printing with ICN2’s experience in antimicrobial coatings. Researchers involved: Dr Salvio Suárez-Garcia, CSIC Prof. Daniel Ruiz-Molina, Belén Pepió-Tárrega (ICN2); Boxin Zhao and Ashna Rajeev (WIN).
- SHINE. In the field of sustainable electronics, SHINE focuses on the development of fully organic electronic transistors made exclusively from environmentally sustainable materials. The project is based on low-temperature vapour-deposition fabrication techniques, avoiding the use of solvents and minimising waste generation. This approach will contribute to the development of flexible, high-performance electronic devices with a reduced environmental footprint. Researchers involved: UAB Prof. Javier Rodriguez-Viejo; Dr Cristian Rodriguez-Tinoco; Xavier Casi; Jamie Forrest; Zoya Leonenko (WIN).
The first three projects funded under this joint initiative began their activities last June, consolidating collaboration between research teams at both institutions. The addition of these two new projects further confirms the success of this first edition of the joint seed funding programme and highlights the shared commitment of ICN2 and WIN to continuing to promote high-impact scientific partnerships.
University of Waterloo Ranked #1 in Materials Science and Engineering
The University of Waterloo continues to be recognized among the top universities in Canada and globally according to the 2025 Academic Ranking of World Universities subject rankings by Shanghai Ranking Consultancy. Five programs rank first in Canada while thirteen programs rank top 50 globally.
2025 WIN Rising Star Recipient Announced
Dr. Yanwei Lum has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN) 2025 Rising Star Award.
Dr. Lum, Assistant Professor at the National University of Singapore, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering will accept this award in person at the WIN Day Talk on May 1, 2026.