18 



Computational biology, climate modeling, rapid prototyping tor manufacturing, and digital libraries are a 

 few among the many areas of emphasis on developing information-based resources across the 

 Foundation 



The Partnerships for Advanced Computational Infrastructure program builds on and replaces the current 

 NSF Supercomputer Centers program established in 1985 It will take advantage of newly emerging 

 opportunities in high performance computing and communications The first awards in the program will 

 be made in FY 1997. 



A pilot program designed to re-engineer business interactions will improve efficiency and productivity and 

 reduce administrative burden on the research community Over 100 institutions are participants and may 

 conduct business with NSF electronically, including submitting proposals, performing merit reviews, 

 requesting cash and managing awards. 



CONCLUSION 



America has entered an exciting, even revolutionary era for research and education in science and 

 engineering In just the last few months, American scientists and engineers have detected planets with the 

 potential for sustaining life trillions of miles from earth, have accomplished genetic breakthroughs with 

 implications for health and food supply, and observed a new state of matter at temperatures near absolute 

 zero. Progress in computing and telecommunications has continued to accelerate More and more schools 

 have begun injecting the thrill of discovery into the teaching of mathematics and science 



The National Science Foundation has been at the center of these and countless other discoveries and 

 advances that excite our imagination and secure our future. For FY 1997, NSF has established priorities for 

 research and education investments that directly reflect this commitment to advancing learning and discovery 

 in the nation's interest. 



