Where do Mechanical Engineers fit in Nanotechnology Research? I've
read that molecular manufacturing is the one for mechanical engineers.

I have a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. I'm thinking of
doing a PhD in Physics with research focus on nanoscale science.
Is this the write option.

Or Is it not yet time for engineers to venture into nanotech as the
science is still developing

Definately the "write" option.

there u go.....fratmatic..
well followed....keep it up and use it whenever its "write ".

It would depend strongly on your personal motivation. The "rules" at
the nanoscale are totally different than at the macroscale, where
you'd be used to working. Of course, the interesting and unique appeal
of nanomaterials and nanoscience are that weird things happen at that
size scale.

Most PhD advisors would be very pleased to have someone with practical
engineering experience on the team. For example, I spent all last week
fixing a broken M4 diffusion pump, designing a harness for a rat, and
building an aluminum box to cover the optical set up we use.

My best advice would be to google some universities that do nano, and
set up a meeting with one or more of the professors who actually do
that sort of research. Then, take a tour of the lab, and talk to the
students who would be your collegues.

Thanks quantumdot...

I still have few questions.

Without the deep understanding of matter at nanoscale/microscale,
which a physicist/chemist usually has, I still dont understand how an
engineer with his half-baked science knowledge will make any
contribution.

In other words, 
lets say someone who has joined a PhD in ME (Nanothermal transport or
nano engineering research). Traditional course work will definitely
not help him in his research and also will be a waste of time but at
the same time is required to complete his degree.

How do u proceed about it...

Any answer will be gr8ly appreciated.


Any elaborate reply will be gr8ly appreciated