During the last 8 years, support for our sciences and higher education has been dramatically slashed.  As such, it has become very difficult for many lines of research to be funded for study.  This has a  trickle down effect in that many who are pursuing advanced degrees rely on this funding for their last years of graduate study.  A greater emphasis should be placed on support for those pursuing advanced degrees, and the Universities they work at.  Strong Universities and greater support of this nations researchers will help keep this country strong and a technological leader.  This leads to greater jobs, and greater manufacturing, thus helping the nation as a whole.