This unit aims to provide the students with an overview of the concepts, promises and caveats associated with the work on nanometer scale particles and structures in the context of biological sciences. Due to their size, nanometer sized particles interact with biological systems in new ways that are still being discovered. Upon successful completion of the unit the students will be able to identify the major issues to be considered when dealing with nanometer scale particles in the realm of the biological sciences, and critically evaluate novel developments or proposals that involve such particles. This will provide them with the intellectual tools to identify opportunities that may arise during their PhD work to use nanometer scale particles and associated technologies to advance their research program.