The center integrates six research thrusts in molecular based nanostructures, semiconductor-based nanostructures, device concepts and modeling, nanofabrication characterization, image and information processing, and functional systems design to address common application goals. The six thrusts comprise a multidisciplinary mix of researchers from the Departments of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Physics, and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

The thrust activities are synergistically planned, managed and executed through the leadership of the Center Director, Professor Wolfgang Porod, and Associate Center Director, Professor Alan C. Seabaugh, so as to provide a coherent approach to targeted and evolving concepts.