The federal role in improving research and development productivity is discussed. A six-point national science and technology data policy is proposed, suggesting that progress ultimately will depend on an overall science and technology policy, the first priority of which is to make available existing knowledge. (Author/JN)

Various issues related to the interface between the natural sciences and the society they serve are addressed. These include direction of British research and development, problems in the business environment preventing the successful use of science, quality of management in successful use of science, and others. (JN)

Provides information regarding recent administrative budgetary decisions for 1982 to support basic research in the universities from Department of Defense (DOD) monies. Discusses the concern that research and training programs on campuses remain unclassified, even though DOD monies fund the programs. (CS)

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)

Describes specific activities and accomplishments of the President's Office of Science and Technology Policy. Addresses policy issues related to strengthening the U.S. science and technology enterprise, fostering industrial innovation, enhancing relationships among government, industry, and universities, and improving the regulatory process.…

Describes the Heritage Foundation, a nonprofit organization with considerable influence on policy formation in the Reagan administration. Recommendations from this group regarding science policy are discussed. (CS)

Discusses the role and accomplishments of the director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). The relationship between the OSTP and the Congress is also discussed. (HM)

Discussed are the efforts of the Pentagon to help U.S. companies remain competitive in high-tech civilian markets. The tug-of-war for these companies between Congress, which has come to view them as a vehicle for pork-barrel funding, and the administration, which is trying to rein them in, is described. (KR)

The Department of Defense is increasing funding for high-risk basic research, research fellowships, multidisciplinary centers, and purchase of research equipment at universities. Disputes on publishing unclassified data remain, but the Pentagon supports broad university programs and the education of scientists and engineers to meet defense and…

An analysis of how the government can and cannot use research and development (R&D) policy to improve the nation's industrial posture suggests four guidelines for federal R&D policy. These guidelines are outlined and discussed. Areas analyzed include federal role; competition from Japan; support for university research, immigration policy,…

Offers a clarification of competitiveness within international trade, particularly its impact upon the mix of goods produced in the United States. Dispels some of the myths about competitiveness that emanate from the false correlation between specific businesses and their country-of-origin. Discusses high productivity as both a cause and an effect…

Discusses issues related to comments made by Britain's Secretary of State for Education and Science that the government may soon take a more direct role in determining teaching/research programs at British universities. Includes comments on the dual support system and impact of potential changes in funding basic scientific research. (JN)

Discusses proposed governmental science policy reforms, including administrative reforms of Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, French equivalent to National Science Foundation. Indicates junior scientists, lab assistants, and technicians will be included in decision making and scientists will be barred from heading research terms for…

Summarizes some recent scientific achievements in particle physics, bioinorganic chemistry, geology, and the life sciences. Discusses research as it applies to the needs of society, including areas of concern for the future. Describes the role of the National Science Foundation as supporting research and education in the sciences and engineering.…

Addresses questions regarding the possible control of universities by the government through rules requiring reporting for 100 percent of the work of scientists supported by the government. Reviews the project grant system and discusses accounting mistakes and abuses within the system, the agency role, indirect costs, and alternatives. (CS)