The technology imperatives of the HGP require interdisciplinary efforts, bringing together the techniques of chemistry, computer science, engineering, applied math, physics, and biology. The complex problems of modern biology demand these interdisciplinary collaborations, and the HGP has been catalytic in this regard. Moreover, the HGP is training a new type of interdisciplinary biologist who understands technology as well as biology. I believe these multidisciplinary biologists will be among the scientific leaders of the 21st century.
America currently is the world leader in biotechnology. This leadership is being threatened by the Japanese. The HGP, through both its technology and the creation of a powerful biological infrastructure, will help ensure this world leadership in the future. In this regard, let me make two points. First, biotechnology offers an opportunity to redress America's failure in industrial competitiveness and the negative trade balance. Let me give you an example: In 1981, a small venture ...
