Biologists in the Modern State

Abstract

The leading article in Nature of April 28 on “Biologists in the Modern State” draws attention once more to the need for biologists with sound basic training in one of the physical sciences. The Agricultural Research Council is seriously concerned about the shortage of plant and animal physiologists with an adequate knowledge of chemistry and physics and of biochemists with biological experience. Posts in these subjects have remained unfilled for long periods owing to lack of suitable applicants. It is recognized by the Council that it is rarely possible in the course of study for a first degree to include adequate training in both biological and physical sciences; and hence applications for the Council's studentships from candidates wishing to study biology after graduating in a physical science, or to study a physical science more thoroughly after training in biology with a physical science as a subsidiary subject, are given very sympathetic consideration. The Council is at present examining the main batch of applications for 1951; but provision is made for the consideration of applications of special merit at any time, and those for training of the type set out above would most certainly fall into this class.