Dr. Manfred Scriba holds a PhD in Experimental Physics from the University of Cape Town on the synthesis and characterization of doped silicon nanoparticles for applications in printed electronics and smart sensors. He was the chairman of the South African (SA) Nanotechnology Initiative that successfully drafted a nanotechnology strategy in 2006 for the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and which resulted in substantial investments in nanotechnology in SA. He successfully drafted a strategy for the establishment of a Nano-Micro Manufacturing Facility (NMMF) which is funded by the DSI, and as director manages the program comprising a technical node at CSIR and 4 nodes at universities. These facilities are tasked with assisting researchers to develop new, low-cost diagnostic devices and sensors for medical applications, as well as developing hybrid sensors and printed electronic devices. As leader of the CSIR NMMF node within the Centre for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials he oversees the development of low-cost medical diagnostics and sensors and the establishment of commercialization partnerships to realize their manufacture towards health impact.
Dr Scriba started his career in product development based on electronic and mechatronic engineering and electro-optics and was also active in nano-materials development as well as business development, has published several papers and patented multiple technologies. This diverse background offers the ideal basis for the development of medical diagnostics and devices that rely on convergent technology integration. In this talk entitles: Nano-Micro Manufacturing towards future diagnostics, flexible devices and integrated sensors. A convergence opportunity for materials, electronics, biology and nanotechnology, Dr Scriba will give an overview of this exciting field and highlight what South Africa is doing in this technology field and where the opportunities lie.