The European Commission (EC) has launched a new project within its 6th Framework Programme that will contribute to the coordination of research in photonics and nanotechnologies. The goal of the MONA project (Merging Optics and Nanotechnologies) is to leverage synergies in photonics and nanotechnologies, seeking to increase the impact and efficiency of investment on European research.

The MONA project will coordinate FP-6 R&D programmes with relevant industries, and with regional and national research programmes inside and outside Europe.

Photonics and Nanotechnologies are highly multi-disciplinary fields and two of the principal enabling technologies for the 21st century. They are two of the main technology drivers for wide horizon of industry sectors such as transport, communication, life sciences, manufacturing and information technologies.

There are three principal objectives for the MONA project:

1. Create a common site for the exchange of information concerning research, networks of excellence, and integrated projects in photonics and nanotechnologies.
2. Promote the timely exchange of scientific results, market development, and technology needs through MONA-developed workshops.
3. Develop a European roadmap for photonics and nanotechnologies.

The MONA project will bridge the gap between photonics and nanotechnologies. Photonics/nanophotonics and nanomaterials/nanotechnologies can benefit from each other in terms of new functions, materials, fabrication processes and applications.

As a Specific Support Action, the MONA project will foster collaborations between photonics and nanotechnologies stakeholders and will help preparing future research activities. A major outcome of MONA will be a consolidated scenario (time horizon 5-10 years), setting out development and technology road maps.