Surveys the outlook presented by former and present chemistry and biochemistry doctoral students toward their graduate program. Poses questions to determine what aspects are deemed important. Suggests seminars and quality advisors are important factors. (ML)

Discusses the use of robotics in the analytical chemistry laboratory. Suggests using a modular setup to best use robots and laboratory space. Proposes a sample preparation system which can perform aliquot measurement, dilution, mixing, separation, and sample transfer. Recognizes attributes and shortcomings. (ML)