Quarterly Journal of Governance Knowledge

Quarterly Journal of Governance Knowledge

Exploring Nanotechnology Development Governance in Iran through the Tentative Governance Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Kiarash Fartash 1
Tooba Baramaki 2
Hamed Esmaeli 3
1 Assistant Professor, Institute for Science and Technology Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
2 PhD Candidate of Futures Studies, Faculty of Governance, Tehran University, Tehran,, Iran
3 Master of Management of Technology, Faculty of Management and Accounting, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/jokog.2025.498278.1044
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this research is to explore the governance of nanotechnology development in Iran through the tentative governance approach. Hence, this study identifies key factors that influence tentative governance of nanotechnology development in Iran and assesses their influence on policy and business decisions of nanotechnology development.
Design/methodology/approach: This paper employs a qualitative research method. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews to analyze the governance of nanotechnology development in Iran. First, we devised a theoretical framework by reviewing the literature and available reports and documents. Our initial framework of tentative governance was then confirmed by experts. Based on our proposed framework, we conducted interviews with experts with relevant background in nanotechnology policy and business to investigate the current governance landscape. Our collected data was coded and analyzed to identify key themes and issues, providing deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities in the development of nanotechnology in Iran through the tentative governance approach.
Findings: Our findings highlight five dimensions of tentative governance in nanotechnology. The first dimension, pragmaticity and flexibility, underscore the need for dynamic and adaptable policies in response to rapid technological advancements. The second dimension, learning and adapting, deals with the importance of managing uncertainties and assissting firms to effectively respond to environmental challenges. The third dimension, stakeholder participation and coordination, emphasizes the necessity of collaboration between governmental institutions, universities, and the private sector, particularly firms. The fourth dimension, goal setting and performance evaluation, shed light on the significance of efficient monitoring and assessment systems for policy implementation. Lastly, the need for appropriate mechanisms to secure funding and infrastructure emphasizes on resource provision and allocation.
The governance of nanotechnology development in Iran has achieved significant progress by adopting a tentative approach, shifting from direct government control to a decentralized structure that encourages participation from academic institutions and the private sector, notably firms. The flexibility of nanotechnology development governance has contributed to the successful development and management of nanotechnology. Despite undertaken efforts, challenges such as brain drain and lack of coordination among institutions limit Iran’s achievement of the strategic goals, particularly those laid out in the 2025 Nanotechnology Roadmap. Additionally, at the governance-level, strengthening research infrastructure and facilitating access to advanced technological equipment is crucial for enhancing Iran’s competitiveness in global markets of nanotechnology.
Research limitations/implications: A notable limitation of this study relates to its qualitative nature, which may limit the generalizability of our findings to the governance of other technologies. Furthermore, our collected data, through semi-structured interviews, may suffer an unwanted bias to the personal perspectives of the interviewees.
Practical Implications: To accelerate nanotechnology development in Iran, strengthening collaboration between the private sector, government, and universities seems crucial. Private sector’s financial and technical capabilities need to be leveraged to enhance research and technology development efforts. Implementing financial incentives and policies to attract private investment is also a priority that needs to be considered by the nanotechnology governance stakeholders. Additionally, limiting government control and delegating as much responsibilities as possible to the private sector to enhance policy implementation. Encouraging private sector involvement will not only speed up technological advancements but would also contribute to a more prosperous and competitive nanotechnology ecosystem in Iran.
Originality/value: Originality/Value: This paper proposes a comprehensive and practical framework for tentative governance in nanotechnology in a developing country, Iran, which can be adopted by other developing countries. By taking into account flexibility and inter-institutional collaboration, our framework can be utilized for effective and adaptive responses to the dynamic challenges of nanotechnology development. Moreover, this study sheds light on the international and domestic governance experiences, providing insights that can enhance decision-making and policy formulation in nanotechnology development and its governance. Our findings can also serve as a basis for tentative governance implantation in other emerging technologies.
Keywords
Governance
Tentative Governance
Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology Governance
Emerging Technologies
Subjects
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Quarterly Journal of Governance Knowledge
Volume 2, Issue 5
Winter 2025
Pages 32-64