On par with the revolution in miniaturization and the developments in bio- and nanotechnology, several new and exciting challenges have arisen in statistical mechanics. The thermodynamic properties of nanoscopic machines, heat pumps and motors are profoundly different from those of their macroscopic counterparts. The strong and ubiquitous influence of thermal fluctuations at the microscopic level poses new problems and opens new possibilities. To cite just one example, molecular motors perform directed motion by a combination of forward and backward steps, in contrast to a steam engine. At the same time, such an engine may be able to harness rather than fightthe fluctuations.

In the last five years, there has been substantial progress in the description and understanding of general properties and limits of nano-devices from the point of view of statistical mechanics. Important new discoveries include the work and fluctuation theorems for general non-equilibrium processes and the related development of stochastic thermodynamics. In this field, questions of practical relevance are intimately connected with problems at the very foundations of statistical mechanics such as the feasibility of Maxwell's demon or of rectification of thermal fluctuations.

A central theme of recent research activity in this direction concerns the optimization of the efficiency and performance of nano-systems. Macroscopic machines such as combustion engines have come a long way to become the universal, efficient and reliable marvels they are today. Although the corresponding optimization of nano-machines is still in its infancy, several interesting concepts and ideas have been proposed, general strategies have been outlined, and the existence of universal features has been pointed out.

The workshop will bring together approximately 15 international experts on optimization in fluctuating non-equilibrium systems, from both sides of the Atlantic, who have significantly contributed to these developments and who will discuss both recent progress and future prospects in this exciting research field.