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Cambridge
16-18
years old

Nanotechnology Summer School

academic insights
2 weeks • July & August 2024
Nanotechnology is the branch of technology that deals with dimensions less than 100 nanometres, especially the manipulation of individual atoms and molecules. To put this into perspective, nanoparticles cannot be seen by the human eye, such as a single strand of human DNA that is 2.5 nanometers in diameter. The aim of the nanotechnology programme is to give students a well-rounded understanding of the complex and intriguing field of nanotechnology.
Prepare for your future on the Immerseâ„¢ Nanotechnology programme.
Enrol now

Advanced pre-university course in Nanotechnology in Cambridge colleges

Prepare for your future on the Immerseâ„¢ Nanotechnology programme. Learn alongside peers from around the world, thrive through one-on-one tutorials from expert university tutors, and immerse yourself in university life in Cambridge. Welcoming ambitious and motivated students from around the world.

With modules exploring the fundamental concepts in nanoscience and nanotechnology, emerging technologies and the history of artificial intelligence, this course offers an in-depth introduction supported by expert tutors. Examining the trends and developments in recent years, students will have the opportunity to form their opinions and gain confidence discussing these in an academic context.

This programme has been developed with Dr Yarjan Abdul Samad, PhD is a Senior Research Associate and Senior Teaching Fellow at The University of Cambridge.

Overview
Academic

Learn directly from expert academics from world-class universities

You will explore novel concepts and share ideas in small groups of like-minded and ambitious peers from around the world. In small class sizes averaging 7 students, you will be guided by expert tutors who have honed their expertise through teaching undergraduate students at world-class universities, including the universities of Cambridge, Oxford, and Harvard.

Our rigorous vetting process guarantees that all participants are taught by engaging and supportive educators who are, most of all, enthusiastic about sharing their expertise to ensure our summer school teaching is of the highest quality. Immerseâ„¢ is an unrivalled academic experience.

  • Average class size of 7

    Maximum class size of 10 students
  • 1:1 tutorials

    Supportive, challenging and engaging
  • Academic workshops

    Develop a practical understanding of your subject
  • World-class tutors

    Academics from Oxford and Cambridge

Boost your confidence and develop key attributes in academic skills workshops

Our workshops are geared towards unlocking participants’ potential, giving them the tools to prepare for the next steps of their education and future goals. Build upon existing study skills to support future university-level learning.

These workshops explore a diverse and enriching range of topics – past examples have ranged from ‘Productivity tips’ to ’21st Century Technology Skills’. We’re sure that you’ll learn something completely new. Unlike traditional schools, Immerse allows you to learn beyond the traditional curriculum.

This programme is designed for students with at least an upper-intermediate level of English (B2). If you are unsure if you meet this requirement, please contact advisor@immerse.education.

  • Certificate & detailed participant evaluation

    All participants receive an individual report from their tutor
  • Personal project or Creative portfolio

    Develop a personal project or a creative portfolio to present at the end of the course
  • Experience Oxbridge life

    Live and learn like an Oxbridge undergraduate
  • Enhance key academic skills

    Interview skills, academic writing and presentation

Guest speakers from previous summers

Each week, Academic Insights participants will hear from an influential guest speaker from a variety of inspiring backgrounds. Meet some of our previous guests:
Neuroscientist & entrepreneur

Dr Lynda Shaw

A journey in personal development - how to create your own set of tools to fast track success
Former Olympian

Abi Oyepitan

A two-time Olympian and Commonwealth Gold and Silver winning track and field athlete.
Philosopher, author & journalist

Dr Nigel Warburton

How do great people find answers to deep and meaningful questions?
Tutors & Speakers
Reviews
Our Alumni says

The course helped me extend my knowledge of English Literature in a lot of different areas which I had not had the opportunity to study before and in an interesting, friendly and interactive way. I came home with a list of different books I want to read and topics I want to follow up on.

Amy R
Attended Immerse in 2018
Residential Summer Programme (English Literature) Student
5/5

Work hard, play hard.

Action-packed social programme

Outside of lessons, we are proud to offer a busy and diverse social programme to help you get the most out of your time in Cambridge. This includes activities such as punting on the River Cam, zorb football and a murder mystery night in the college.

There are also two excursions during the programme, one day trip to visit Oxford and its constituent colleges, as well as an optional day out in London, seeing the city’s most famous landmarks as well as some free time for shopping. Those who choose not to travel to London are invited to afternoon tea in Cambridge.

Activities and excursions are run by our team of friendly mentors – whose main job is to maximise your enjoyment.

Work hard, play hard.

A unique social programme.

Experience traditional 'Formal Hall'

Formal Hall is a traditional weekly meal that takes place in every college. This is an opportunity for students to dress up, dine by candlelight in the magical surroundings of a Cambridge college’s dining hall.

As an Immerse student, you will experience formal dinner three times during your stay – once per week in Cambridge, as well as in an Oxford University college on the excursion day.

Formal hall is truly a memorable occasion, so remember to bring some smart clothes!

A unique social programme.

Activities

Live and study in a
Cambridge University College

Experience life as a Cambridge University undergraduate

All participants will be allocated to a college a few weeks before arriving, based on their dates and subject choice.

If you would like to stay in the same location as a friend/sibling – please let us know and we will do our best to arrange this, where possible.

Males and females have separate accommodation in every college, and there is wi-fi available throughout.

For more information, please visit this page.

Accommodation

Student Welfare & Safety

An accredited provider of academic short courses

Immerse Education is accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), the leading mark of educational quality for the academic sector. Our accreditation with the BAC sends a positive and clear message to students and partners that they are studying with a trusted and reliable provider who has met a series of globally recognised quality assurance standards, both in terms of academic provision and student welfare.

The safety and well-being of our participants is our number one priority, and all staff undergo enhanced background checks and receive thorough safeguarding training before interacting with any students.

For more information, please visit our Pastoral Information page.

Pastoral Care

Meet some of our mentors and
college managers

All mentors on the Academic Insights programme are past/current students at Oxford or Cambridge University, whilst College Managers have experience running academic short courses. All of our support staff are background-checked and receive training in providing an unforgettable experience for every Immerse student. Meet some of our previous team:
  • Freya
    Freya is a third year Medical student at St John's College, Oxford University. She is a keen runner and cyclist and has recently enjoyed taking up college rowing.
  • Jem
    Mentor
  • Lily-Mae
    Mentor
  • Poppy
    Mentor
  • Photo of a female student on university grounds
    Sophie
    Mentor
Pastoral Care

Immerseâ„¢ Nanotechnology Sample Modules

To see how the programme is structured, download the Academic Insights timetable here.
  • Module 1 - Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

    Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
    In this introductory module, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the fabrication processes that are used in nanoscience research as well as in the industry of nanotechnology to construct complex micro and nanoelectronic structures. Students will be able to use this understanding of the chemistry, physics and engineering of planar processes to predict the performance of fabricated structures.
  • Module 2 - Research in Nanoscience

    Research in Nanoscience
    In this module, you will continue to broaden your understanding of research in the field, taking a deep dive into the interdisciplinary aspects of modern nanoscience and nanotechnology. During this module, you will work in groups to form a presentation showcasing your knowledge built from a group of nanoscience researchers studied, presenting current and thematic research examples in the area of nanoscience.
  • Module 3 - Nanofabrication

    Nanofabrication
    Throughout this aspect of the course, you will be introduced to the principles and practice of nanofabrication. Topics will likely cover lithography, pattern transfer, inspection and electrical testing. You will also gain the opportunity to complete a short fabrication project during this part of the course.
  • Module 4 - Research Methods & Techniques

    Research Methods & Techniques
    Solidifying your knowledge base and skill set in the realm of nanoscience research, you will explore the fundamental principles of the scientific method. You will deepen your understanding and skillset in core scientific research skills including planning, designing, executing, evaluating and presenting research effectively.
  • Module 5 - Microwave & Millimetre Circuit Design

    Microwave & Millimetre Circuit Design
    The Microwave and Millimetre Circuit Design module is designed to provide you with the fundamental knowledge of microwave and millimetre-wave components and to develop the skills necessary for circuit design. This foundation is extended to integrate such components into more complex systems such as TX/TR in modern communications and imaging systems taking into consideration applied techniques and technology involved.
  • Module 6 - Microscopy & Optics

    Microscopy & Optics
    You will build a fundamental understanding of a variety of microscopic and spectroscopic methodologies used to study biological systems. After completing this module, you will understand the operating principles behind these methods and be able to identify the most suitable methodology for studying a given sample. This understanding will be achieved through a combination of academic sessions and practical laboratory workshops.
  • Module 7 - Nano & Atomic Scale Imaging

    Nano & Atomic Scale Imaging
    Explore the underlying physical principles required to comprehend widely applied techniques for the characterisation of materials that depend critically upon structural features at the nanometre and atomic length scales. The techniques covered in this module include Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The physics governing these techniques are taught along with an emphasis on practical knowledge.
  • Module 8 - Quantum Electronic Devices

    Quantum Electronic Devices
    This module takes a close look at Quantum Electronic Devices and considers the design and operation of advanced semiconducting and superconducting devices, to the fundamentals of quantum technologies and their applications for sensing and computing. By the end of this unit, you will have an understanding of what quantum electronic devices are and their place in the study of nanoscience.
Find out more
Download syllabus overview
Find out more
Download syllabus overview
Modules
  • 7th – 20th July 2024

  • 21st July – 3rd August 2024

13 nights accommodation in a central college of the University of Cambridge or Oxford
Breakfast and dinner included on campus (lunch included for students aged 13-15)
Accommodation in an individual bedroom
40 hours of academic sessions from Oxford University and Cambridge University tutors
Carefully designed study and lecture materials
Mentor programme and access to support material
All excursions- including formal dinner at Cambridge/Oxford colleges, punting, croquet
Comprehensive summer school insurance
2 coach excursions including a trip to London
Graduation ceremony and certificate
Detailed evaluation written by tutor
Immerse notebook and pen
Mentor family photograph
Free premium membership to UniPrepare's 'Nurture' plan

Nanotechnology

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