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The magic of science
Stephanie Gross
Physics lecturer Robert Watkins, left, shows children how a siphon works during a demonstration that was part of U.Va.'s Science Day programs Sept. 30. At right, third-year undergraduate Matthew Schiffler makes dry ice during the chemistry department's "Magic Show." The biology, mathematics, environmental sciences and astronomy departments also participated in the well-attended fair, for children of all ages. Science Day was sponsored by U.Va.'s Center for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Education and by Virginia National Bank.

By Dan Heuchert

The 2000-02 biennial budget took effect just three months ago, and the 2001 session of the Virginia General Assembly does not convene until January. But state agencies are now submitting their priority lists for budget changes they would like to see.

The Board of Visitors met by telephone Oct. 2 to approve the University's budget amendment requests, which were subsequently forwarded to Richmond. Among the top priorities were a proposal to allow the Medical Center to keep $4.4 million in interest, generated mainly by patient revenue, rather than turn it over to the state treasury; and $4 million in support for the Integrated Systems Project.

The requests fall into two general categories: those to be supported from state coffers, or the "general fund"; and "non-general fund" projects, paid for through other revenue streams. Many capital projects, to be funded through anticipated revenue or by donors, fall under the non-general fund heading, but the University still must receive state approval for the expenditures.

"Typically, we have a pretty good track record there," said Nancy Rivers, director of the Office of State Governmental Relations. Full story.

Engineering wins NSF grant for nanoscale materials research

By Charlotte Crystal

The U.Va. Engineering School has won a $5 million grant from the National Science Foundation to establish a new Center for Nanoscopic Design. It is one of four new NSF-funded Materials Research Science and Engineering centers nationwide that will explore innovative materials and further the integration of research and education in the field of materials science.

"We're pleased and gratified at this vote of confidence by the NSF," said Richard W. Miksad, dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science. "Only 20 or so of these grants are in effect at any given time, and we were selected to receive one in vigorous competition with the nation's top research universities." 

The grant will strengthen U.Va.'s position at the forefront of materials research in areas ranging from novel electronic devices to fabrication of materials at the atomic level. It also will serve as an educational resource for both high school and university students, said Robert Hull, principal investigator and professor of materials science and engineering. Full story.