Prepared by Merry Buckley, Thomas Slezak, and Thomas Brettin.

Bioinformatics, the application of computer analysis to molecular biology, is a fundamental corollary to biodefense research. As we face new security threats involving pathogens and infectious disease, bioinformatics databases must be improved and a plan must be made for integrating biodefense research throughout the world. This report outlines the recommendations made by the world's leaders in bioinformatics at a colloquium held in Baltimore.

Prepared by Moselio Schaechter, Roberto Kolter and Merry Buckley.

This report details the central importance of microbes to life on earth, the direction microbiology research will take in the 21st Century and ways to foster public microbial literacy beginning at an elementary school level.

Prepared by W. Jack Payne, Ph.D.

Identifies promising research areas in microbiology, particularly those that offer the greatest potential for long-term benefits and opportunities.

Prepared by Francis L. Macrina, Ph.D.

Includes an in-depth analysis of the issues involved in collaborative scientific research and makes recommendations to educators, the broader microbiology community, policy makers, and the public.