The synthesis and control of materials at size scales in the micro- to nanometer range provides access to completely novel material and system properties. At these scales, effects emerge in which there is still a largely untapped potential for revolutionary, novel functionalities. The controlled manipulation and mastery of such materials and functionalities requires novel tools. Research by scientists and engineers is converging at these structural scales, synergistically pooling resources. From this, entirely new nanotechnology-based devices are emerging.

The Leibniz Research Center Laboratory of Nano and Quantum Engineering provides a basis for the necessary interdisciplinary research. For this purpose, the know-how of different disciplines is focused and bundled in a broad effort in order to open up new fields of application based on targeted basic research and to use nanotechnology economically.

The purpose is the selfless promotion of applied research in the field of mesoscopic systems in the micro- and nanometer range. Within this framework, the institution carries out research projects in interdisciplinary cooperation. The results of these projects are made available to the interested public in a suitable form.

The task of the institution is basic research in mesoscopic size scales and their implementation in practical applications. The terms nano- and quantum engineering, nanoanalytics and nanomaterials characterize the research of the Leibniz Research Center LNQE. In addition, the Leibniz Research Center LNQE focuses on application fields of nanotechnology as well as education and promotion of young scientists in these fields. In this context, the center will in particular

• carry out research and development projects aimed at opening up new or improving already known application possibilities for micro- and nanotechnology;
• to ensure the practical application of scientific findings and to bring together forces of applied research and practice;
• to provide education and training and to operate auxiliary facilities for scientific work and its evaluation in applied research;
• to promote and improve interdisciplinary cooperation among its members,
• to cooperate with other research institutions at home and abroad in fulfilling the proper tasks of the institution.

In order to realize its purposes and tasks, the Leibniz Research Center LNQE operates its own research building in Hannover with laboratories, equipment, office workplaces and, in particular, clean rooms. 

From the LNQE statutes