Evident Technologies of Troy, N.Y., has licensed a water-soluble preparation from Rockefeller University of New York that enables the company's quantum dots to be used in biological applications and assays. Developed by Albert Libchaber, the metal and semiconductor nanoparticle complexes allow the dots to be used in long-duration fluorescence measurements and in cell biology applications, including cell labeling and in vivo analysis. The company intends to provide broadened research capabilities by combining the preparation with its ability to produce the dots in volume and across a wide spectrum.

Also, under a licensing agreement with IBM Corp., based in White Plains, N.Y., Evident can make, use and sell PbSe quantum dot nanocrystals based on IBM's production methods. The company plans to make the material commercially available for numerous potential applications, including lasers, lighting and photonics.