It has been more than 20 years since Americans have won Nobel Prizes for medicine, chemistry, and physics all in the same year.  I would like to congratulate all of the witnesses for their remarkable achievements.  From the microscopic to the astronomical, the research conducted by these individuals is remarkable and will further advance the knowledge of our world for years to come.

   

Groundbreaking basic research is the cornerstone of technology and societal progress.  This type of research helps to improve the health of our people, stimulate our economy, preserve our environment, and strengthen the national defense over the long-term.

 

The continued funding of basic research is critical to maintaining the United States’ competitive edge in the world.  By focusing our efforts to support basic research through the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the National Labs, we are investing in more bright minds and new ideas that will help to ensure that future innovations that transform the world will originate here in the United States.  By supporting and improving the teaching of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, we are also encouraging the next generation of American students to follow the example of today’s Nobel Laureates.

 

Last Wednesday, with the passage of the bipartisan America COMPETES Act, the Senate sent a clear message that our nation’s competitiveness is a major priority that must be addressed as soon as possible.  I was pleased to play a major role in developing this legislation to increase funding for basic research, strengthen science, technology, engineering, and math education, and develop a 21st Century innovation infrastructure.  I hope that we will be able to get this bill signed into law as soon as possible.    

 

Once again, I look forward to hearing from all of our witnesses today.

 

Thank you.