Dignitaries including Gov. Mike Beebe, Sen. Mark Pryor, Rep. Tim Griffin, and UALR Chancellor Joel E. Anderson will be on hand at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 2, for the opening and dedication of UALR’s newest building – the Center for Integrative Nanotechnology Sciences.

Center Director Dr. Alexandru Biris will offer tours of the research facility, with nanotechnology students and scientists giving demonstrations in the new laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment.

Scientists from affiliated research institutions including UCA, Arkansas State, UAMS, and the National Center for Toxicological Research will be attending, as well as corporate partners in Arkansas and Dr. Robin Staffin of the U.S. Department of Defense.

The center, with a focus on research, education, and economic development, is helping the state by developing nanotechnology breakthroughs in areas such as tissue regeneration, industrial coatings, anti-counterfeiting solutions, ultra-thin solar cells, and cancer treatments.

The new center is located on the west side of campus between Dickinson and Fribourgh Halls.