Sigma Xi, Clemson Chapter

Welcome to the Clemson Chapter of Sigma Xi

What is Sigma Xi?

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, is the honor society of scientists and engineers that recognizes scientific achievement. The Society is a diverse chapter-based organization dedicated to the advancement of science and engineering through outstanding programs and services delivered in a collegial and supportive environment. It's mission is to enhance the health of the research enterprise, foster integrity in science and engineering, and promote the public's understanding of science for the purpose of improving the human condition. The Sigma Xi vision is "to be the global honor society of science and engineering."

Upcoming Events:

7:00 PM February 15, McKissick Theater

The Clemson Chapter of Sigma Xi is pleased to present a talk
by our 2010 Distinguished Lecturer,

Steven Klaine, Ph.D.
Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
Interim Director, CU-ENTOX

The Janus Face of Nanotechnology: Promises, Products,
and Potential Problems

In 1959 at the annual meeting of the American Physical Society, Richard Feynman delivered what was to be a prophetic talk entitled “There’s Plenty of Room at the Bottom.” His lecture discussed manipulating and controlling things on a small scale such as fitting the entire 24 volumes of the Encyclopedia Britannica on the head of a pin. Forward thinking in an era when computers occupied entire floors of buildings and society would be thinking “big” like going to the moon. Yet 50 years later we are actively manipulating and controlling things on scales so small that Feynman’s fantasy about the Encyclopedia Britannica has become reality. Indeed, while Eric Drexler is commonly credited with coining the term “nanotechnology” in the 1980s, Feynman is credited with heralding its coming. The ability to build products inexpensively with almost every atom in the right place holds tremendous promises for advances in virtually every sector of society. Smart drugs that deliver medicine only to cells that need it, strong yet light materials for automobile bumpers, airplanes and tennis racquets, and tiny reactive particles that clean water at a fraction of previous costs are just a few of the many applications of nanotechnology. Presently there are over 1000 products on the market that either use nanomaterials or apply nanotechnology in some manner. Drexler is also generally considered to be the first person to apprehend the potential dangers of nanotechnology and its threats to humankind. In his book Engines of Creation, he drew attention to the dangers posed by uncontrolled development of nanotechnology. While potential risks of nanotechnology have been largely theoretical, recent published research suggests that efforts should be increased to quantify the interactions of nanomaterials with biological systems; quantitative analysis of potential biological exposures and effects is needed, and prudent management strategies should be developed prior to widespread use of certain nanoparticles. This seminar will examine the field of nanotechnology from its inception to the present and assess our state of knowledge regarding potential benefits and problems. 7:00 PM February 15, McKissick Theater
Refreshments served prior to the talk, 6:30-7:00 All are welcome.

Latest Award Information:

The Clemson Chapter of Sigma Xi - The Scientific Research Society, has announced the recipients of the chapter's annual awards.

Outstanding Young Investigator of the Year:
Xuejun Wen, Associate Professor of Bioengineering

Outstanding Researcher of the Year:
Lesley Temesvari, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences