The laboratory was the result of a joint investment of NOK 250 million made by SINTEF and the Research Council of Norway. Ten years ago it was one of the largest single investment projects in Norwegian commercial research since the Halden nuclear reactor was built in the 1950s.
MiNaLab has played a major role in the development of basic knowledge, advanced technology and industry, and has enabled the research scientists working there to maintain a high level of research quality throughout its ten year existence. The lab has also had a major impact on the quality of education provided by UiO.
These last ten years have seen the development of aircraft pressure gauges, artificial hearts, new types of solar cells and new materials for the manufacture of gas sensors. One of MiNaLab's radiation detectors contributed to the discovery of the Higgs Boson, and other sensors are now helping us recycle waste and measure blood pressure. Key leaders from Norwegian research and industry, as well as other public figures, took part in the ceremony at the Forum building in Oslo Science Park.