Molecular nanotechnology and programmable matter

[Superhet]

My plan right now is to study a program called 'engineering physics with materials science' when I enter university in the fall. What I want to work with is molecular nanotechnology and programmable matter. I want to contribute to creating stuff like "computronium", utility fog, self-healing materials and in particular medical nanomachines with the purpose of aiding the elimination of aging. I know, all easily accomplished in a day's work right?

So my question is, what do you think would be particularly necessary or useful courses to take for these (highly hypothethical) things beyond just the obvious blanket statement of "math, physics, chemistry and computing"? What sub-fields will I need to focus on and combine in particular, what skills will I need? Or perhaps this is too broad to give more than a blanket answer. In either case I'm thankful for the clarity.

Thanks in advance!

 

[berkeman]

My plan right now is to study a program called 'engineering physics with materials science' when I enter university in the fall. What I want to work with is molecular nanotechnology and programmable matter. I want to contribute to creating stuff like "computronium", utility fog, self-healing materials and in particular medical nanomachines with the purpose of aiding the elimination of aging. I know, all easily accomplished in a day's work right?

So my question is, what do you think would be particularly necessary or useful courses to take for these (highly hypothethical) things beyond just the obvious blanket statement of "math, physics, chemistry and computing"? What sub-fields will I need to focus on and combine in particular, what skills will I need? Or perhaps this is too broad to give more than a blanket answer. In either case I'm thankful for the clarity.

Thanks in advance!

Welcome to the PF.

Sounds like fun things to study and to work with. What periodicals covering those subjects have you been reading? Are there certain peer-reviewed journals that cover those subjects routinely? What universities seem to have good programs in those areas? Do those schools publish the courses that are required for those majors?