Get the latest news from Computerworld delivered via email.I've just listened to some good coverage from the Guardian's Science Weekly podcast about the impact Barack Obama's victory might have on US science and, frankly, it couldn't help but be an improvement over the last eight years.
He seems determined to ensure the US retains the capability of manned space missions even as the shuttles near retirement with no replacement in sight. He also seems likely to loosen restrictions on Federal funding for stem cell research, restrictions that have seen labs operating two sets of equipment side by side: one set for federally funded projects and the other for privately funded ones.
It did raise some concerns for the Guardian's UK commentators, though. Bush's policies have been a boon for UK science, particularly stem cell research. A reversal of policy could see that, and some of the best and brightest, heading back across the Atlantic.
Another area likely to gain emphasis with be the development of sustainable technologies, fuel efficient vehicles and energy efficient homes, perhaps backed by a "Green New Deal" to get it all in place.
Hopefully it will mean the end of this sort of business as well.