Abstract: A micro-electromagnet matrix captures and controls the movement of particles with nanoscale resolution. The micro-electromagnet matrix includes multiple layers of microconductors, each layer of microconductors being orthogonal to an adjacent layer or microconductors. The layers of microconductors are formed on a substrate and have insulating layers therebetween. The field patterns produced by the micro-electromagnet matrix enable precise manipulation of particles. The micro-electro-magnet matrix produces single or multiple independent field peaks in the magnetic field that are used to trap, move, or rotate the particles. The micro-electromagnet matrix also produces electromagnetic fields to probe and detect particles.