[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 82 (Wednesday, May 17, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1064]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    RESEARCH FOR OUR NATION'S FUTURE

                                 ______


                           HON. STEVEN SCHIFF

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 17, 1995
  Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mention the importance of 
the basic scientific research funded under budget function 270. While 
this research may fall under the Energy Supply Research and Development 
title, this work, much of which is occurring at our national 
laboratories, is basic fundamental scientific research that applies to 
national problems in nuclear weapons and environmental cleanup.
  Research efforts at the national laboratories are characterized by 
scientific excellence and the integration of basic research to real 
applications in the chemical sciences, materials sciences, and 
geosciences. For example, the materials science research program at the 
national laboratories not only demonstrates the relevance of basic 
science to technology, but also supports the Energy Department's 
primary missions. In addition, these programs take advantage of a wide 
range of large, capital intensive research facilities that are not 
usually found at universities.
  Work in areas such as scientifically tailored materials combine 
expertise in solid state sciences, atomic-level diagnostics, materials 
synthesis and processes science to produce new classes of tailored 
materials for critical defense needs, and which can also be used by 
industry down the road. That national laboratories materials 
researchers win prizes and awards each year, indicates that their 
colleagues in universities and industry recognize the value of their 
scientific contributions.
  In conclusion, I ask my colleagues to be mindful that the national 
laboratories are conducting original and relevant basic research in the 
basic energy sciences program that is of great value to our Nation's 
future.


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