Status and perspectives of nanoscale device modelling

During the meetings of the theory and modelling working group, within the MEL-ARI (Microelectronics Advanced Research Initiative) and NID-FET (Nanotechnology Information Devices–Future and Emerging Technologies) initiatives of the European Commission, we have been discussing the current status and the future perspectives of nanoscale device modelling. The outcome of such a discussion is summarized in the present paper, outlining the major challenges for the future, such as the integration of nonequilibrium phenomena and of molecular-scale properties. We believe that modelling has a growing importance in the development of nanoelectronic devices and must therefore make a move from physics to engineering, providing valid design tools, with quantitative predictive capabilities.