Notebook - The Scientist - Magazine of the Life Sciences

The National Science Foundation's division of environmental biology recently announced a special grant competition-- called Partnerships for Enhancing Expertise in Taxonomy--to stimulate taxonomic research and training. The initiative is spurred by concern over dwindling numbers of younger scientists taking up taxonomy--the study of the general principles of scientific classification--and systematics and the limited knowledge that exists about thousands of species. Specifically, NSF is seeking applicants to submit ideas on how to train future generations of taxonomists and how to translate current expertise into electronic databases to broaden accessibility of taxonomic data, as well as research proj-ects on taxonomy and evolution, especially of little-known species. The deadline for applications is March 1. For more information, contact the division of environmental biology at (703) 306-1480. E-mail: [email protected]. Science students and teachers seeking ideas for classroom science projects or contests can now turn to the Science Experiments and Proj-ects Index. Written and edited by the staff of the Columbus (Ohio) Metropolitan Library, the source describes 8,400 hands-on, interactive experiments and project ideas. The book is published by Fort Atkinson, Wis.- based Highsmith Press, (800) 558-2110 or (414) 563-9571. Beginning this month, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) in Research Triangle Park, N.C., is establishing a clearinghouse to provide information or referrals for questions about health and the environment. Users can call EnviroHealth toll-free at (800) NIEHS94 (643-4794) to receive information about NIEHS research and training programs as well as referrals to other NIH offices; clearinghouses; toll-free numbers; federal, state, and local...