Indicates that although the costs of sophisticated state-of-the-art instruments are needed for chemical research, federal agency funding assumptions lag far behind. Issues related to these costs, including an estimate of what the National Science Foundation departmental budget should be, are discussed. (JN)

Presented are problems related to replacement and purchasing complex laboratory instruments necessary in biological research. Increased costs of equipment and leveling of research support are acknowledged as contributors to the problem. (SA)

Scientists/engineers from industry, universities, and government met to: review the status of scientific instrumentation in university research laboratories; explore new approaches to alleviating problems within existing budgetary constraints; and suggest ways for the National Research Council (NRC) to help. Federal agency, corporate, and…

These hearings focused on the National Science Foundation's (NSF) proposed program and budget. Testimony of witnesses, prepared statements, discussions, and supporting documentation (including hearings summary) are provided. Among the issues, areas, and topics addressed were: (1) relevance of NSF's mission to presidential goals; (2) science and…