In order to achieve these goals, the Unit is designed to encompass three major integrated and interrelated directions (pillars) in modern materials research. These three pillars which provide a multidisciplinary research methodology to the study of Advanced Nanostructured Materials, and make the proposed Unit unique in the scientific and technological map of Cyprus are:  

Computational and Simulations Materials Science: research within this activity will focus on modeling and design of advanced innovative materials for applied science and engineering applications, using a multiscale methodological approach spanning the entire spectrum from the atomistic to the macroscopic level.

Synthesis of Nanoengineered Materials: research will focus on the development and growth of nanostructured thin films with significant engineering applications including hard coatings, solid lubricants, wear-resistant layers for environmental protection, new coatings for solar energy applications, biocompatible coatings for medical applications.

Nanoscale Chracterization: research will concentrate on the determination, testing, characterization and nanoscale control of materials properties. Examples of techniques to be employed include nanoindentation, atomic force and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, etc.

  It should be noted that the synergistic approach between the three mentioned research directions is only found in a handful of materials research centers worldwide.