Legendary Physics Class
Seeks Upgrade Funds

(From left) Physics major Evan Wult, Siegrist, and Physics 111 development engineer Don Orlando.

Since 1974, Physics 111 has been a staple of physics and engineering majors on the UC Berkeley campus. The advanced laboratory sequence, taken over two or three semesters, is distinguished by its hands-on experimentation, its difficulty, and its value to graduates. But instrumentation is showing wear, and budget cuts are taking their toll on facilities. A team of Physics 111 professors, including Berkeley Lab Physics Division Director Jim Siegrist, has developed a three-step plan to address the need for upgrades over the next five years. And contributions are encouraged. Go here to read more about the program, its needs, and how to donate money or equipment.

Lab Clubs Vie
For New Members

Members of the Berkeley Lab Martial Arts Club demonstrate their kicks in the cafeteria plaza during last week’s “Meet the Clubs” event, sponsored by the Employee Activities Association (EAA). Representatives of the 19 recreational, cultural and wellness clubs met with visitors to talk about their groups and hand out information. For more information about the EAA, or to contact the clubs go here.

Former Lab Genome
Pioneer Silverman Dies
By Gary Robbins

Silverman

Paul H. Silverman, a biologist and ethicist who held leadership positions throughout academia before joining the University of California, Irvine, faculty, died July 15 at UCI Medical Center. He was 79. Silverman was a senior scientist at Berkeley Lab from 1984-90, where he helped create a first-of-its kind human genome center with UC Berkeley in 1987. Silverman had a blood-cell disorder that led to complications and a fatal heart attack, UCI said. Full story (registration required)

Office Thermostat Wars
Bring Tense Climate
By Joan Axelrod-Contrada

Some like it hot. Others prefer a nice, cool, air-conditioned office. With summer on the sizzle, the air-conditioning wars are heating up. When it comes to temperature, weary office managers know there's no pleasing everyone. Worker laments of ''it's too hot'' or ''it's too cold'' topped a list of the 10 most common office complaints in a 2003 survey by the International Facilities Management Association. The seasonal struggle can take on epic proportions. William Fisk, senior staff scientist at Berkeley Lab, said most studies indicate a slight drop in productivity when office temperature exceeds 77 degrees. Studies also show that workers in offices with high temperatures report more adverse health symptoms such as irritation of eyes, nose, or throat, Fisk said. Full story.

Tech Bust Zaps Interest
in Computer Careers
By Alex Pham

There used to be waiting lists for Rick Ord's classes as students packed 200-seat auditoriums to scribble down bits of code once thought to unlock a life of riches and security. These days, Ord's lectures on systems programming at UC San Diego convene in smaller halls with plenty of empty seats. It's the same scene on campuses across the country, as enrollment in computer science programs has dropped sharply — down 23% from 2002 to 2003. At UC Berkeley, the number of students enrolling in computer science and computer engineering dropped 41% in that period. Full story (registration required).