212 Perspectives in Microbiology 



ous research problems, in both the fundamental and the 

 applied phases of the subject. The institute will serve as a 

 gathering place for seminars and conferences on micro- 

 biological subjects. It will also serve as a depository of 

 cultures of microorganisms of theoretical or practical im- 

 portance. 



In planning this institute, departmentalization has been 

 avoided. It is our sincere hope that research programs will 

 be flexible, investigators will be free to pursue their chosen 

 fields without restriction, "team research" will be encour- 

 aged whenever possible, especially when "it grows out of 

 genuine supplementation of contributions" and "when it 

 serves the purpose of developing ideas" (Curt P. Richter). 

 Opportunities will be given for younger men and women 

 to obtain knowledge and guidance in their selected fields. 



In concluding, I should like to repeat what I said two 

 years ago, in connection with the laying of the cornerstone 

 of this building: 



This institute will devote its efforts to the study of the 

 smallest forms of life, the microbes, wherever they are 

 found and no matter what their activities may be. Let this 

 institute serve as a center where scientists from all parts 

 of the world may gather to work, to learn, and to teach. 

 The halls of this institute are dedicated to the free pursuit 

 of scientific knowledge for the benefit of all mankind. 



