WASHINGTON—Members of Congress have rolled out the welcome mat for Allan Bromley the president’s new science adviser and director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy. But their enthusiastic greeting also has focused attention on the many difficult science-based problems facing the country.

The issues aren’t new; among others, they include setting priorities for science, improving science education in elementary and secondary schools, replacing aging university equipment and facilities, restoring the balance between civilian and military research, and translating discoveries into commercial products. And the Bush administration doesn’t have any magical answers, especially for those projects that require additional funds. But legislators seem pleased with Bromley’s opinions on a range of topics, and they view his arrival as an opportunity for a fresh assault on them.

“It’s a real pleasure to have an OSTP director who’s not an apologist for SDI,” said Rep. Sherwood Boehiert (R-N.Y) in a reference...

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