The American flag at Berkeley Lab and at homes throughout the country will be flying at half-staff today to honor the memory of those who died in the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington two years ago. Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham, in conveying President Bush's proclamation throughout the Department, said, "We should all take time to reflect on the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in a way that reflects honor upon our Nation and remembers those innocent people who lost their lives." The proclamation asks that all Americans observe a moment of silence to honor the innocent victims. University of California President Richard Atkinson also acknowledges the anniversary to campuses and laboratories in a statement here. The UC Berkeley campus will observe a moment of silence during the noon hour with an informal gathering on Sproul Plaza.

More Science, Less
Programming

A new software tool promises to aid scientists whose research has forced them to lead double lives -- as computer programmers. The tool, called the Tensor Contraction Engine (TCE), automatically generates the computer code that chemists, physicists, and materials scientists need to model the structure and interaction of complex molecules, saving them weeks or even months of work. According to a recent study, computational chemistry and materials science projects accounted for some 30 percent of the work at the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center at Berkeley Lab. Full story.

Policy Reminder on
Outside Employment

When is it permissible to engage in outside employment, and what types are allowed? Outside employment opportunities are extremely varied, but four basic rules to remember are: (1) the work is done outside Lab hours and not on Lab premises; (2) it does not interfere with or detract from the performance of your Lab duties; (3) it does not create a real or apparent conflict of interest; (4) you do not use Lab supplies, equipment, facilities, or resources. Go here for more details.