The development of transistors, the integrated circuit, liquid-crystal displays, and even DVD players can be traced back to fundamental research pioneered in the field of condensed-matter and materials physics, but the United States' position as a leader in the field is in jeopardy. CONDENSED-MATTER AND MATERIALS PHYSICS: THE SCIENCE OF THE WORLD AROUND US, a new report from the National Research Council, assesses the present state of the field in the U.S. and examines possible directions for the 21st century. The report offers a set of scientific challenges for American researchers to tackle and makes recommendations for effective spending of federal funds.
Reporters can obtain copies by contacting the National Academies' Office of News and Public Information at tel. 202-334-2138 or e-mail news@nas.edu. Advance copies of the report will be available to reporters only beginning at 10 A.M. EDT on Wednesday, June 13. THE REPORT IS EMBARGOED AND NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE BEFORE 10 A.M. EDT THURSDAY, JUNE 14.