The dichotomy existing between fundamental and applied research in agriculture inhibits progress in theory and practice. Suggests that the initiative for breaking down the barriers between applied and fundamental research should come from working scientists. Lists ten agriculturally relevant fundamental research areas which are lagging and require…

A brief summary of the state of agricultural research in the United States. The agricultural research system is finely attuned to the immediate needs of its clients, as evident in its response to the attack of corn blight in 1970. (JR)

Discusses competing grant applications both new and renewal, including those for traditional grants (research projects initiated and conducted by individual investigators) and those for program project grants which support multidisciplinary efforts of a relatively large group of investigators. (Author/DS)

Discussed is the question of whether "heavy" neutrinos really do exist based on the evidence supplied by four research groups. The implications of its existence on the disciplines of particle physics, astrophsyics, and cosmology are discussed. Background information on the different types of neutrinos is provided. (KR)

Discussed is the way in which a limited number of astronomy research initiatives were chosen and prioritized based on a consensus of members from the Astronomy and Astrophysics Survey Committee. A list of recommended equipment initiatives and estimated costs is provided. (KR)

Discusses the increasing trend toward the pork-barrel funding of science projects, particularly for grants to academic institutions. Addresses the new strategies being employed by opponents of such funding. Describes some of the possible ramifications of the various strategies and the perceived link between science funding and economic growth. (TW)

Basic research in agriculture gets little support from government. It is time to improve this situation and expand research efforts in this area. (PS)

Discusses a study on the areas of concern in the relationship between government funding agencies and university based research programs. The conclusions about accountability which resulted from the study are given. (SA)

Describes programs used by European countries and companies for advancing the commercialization of biotechnology. Compares European strategies and efforts in biotechnology with those undertaken in the United States. Includes listings of the European countries and the areas of biotechnology research. (ML)

Provides a summary of some of the recent activities of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) from the perspective of the current director. Emphasizes making NIH better known to the American people and presenting the attractions of the many roles in health-related research to young people formulating career plans. (TW)

Discusses the difficulties and challenges of doing basic research in science in a research university. Emphasizes the need for revising the Office of Management and Budget's Circular A-12 which imposes regulatory demands and work-load documentation on government-sponsored research in universities. (CS)

Reports that as a result of our increasing knowledge of the molecular biology of nitrogen fixation it might eventually be possible to increase the biological production of nitrogenous fertilizer from atmospheric nitrogen. (GS)