This project provides partial funding for an international workshop on "Lasers in Science and Technology" at the University of Jordan, Amman. Participants will include U.S., Middle Eastern, and Indian scientists. Two main objectives are sought: To stimulate scientific collaboration between U.S. and Middle Eastern research groups; And to discuss proposals for an interdisciplinary regional Laser Research Center in the Middle East. The topics to be considered in the week-long meeting will include: Basic atomic, molecular and optical physics; Atomic spectroscopy; Molecular spectroscopy; Laser-induced reactive and non-reactive Chemistry; Laser Chemical analysis; Laser-produced plasmas; Laser surface interactions; Small accelerator physics; and Biomedical application of lasers. The proposed Laser Research Center to be discussed would have a program for these activities: conducting experimental research in physics, chemistry, biology, as well as medicine, agriculture and engineering; sponsor visits by scientists from abroad; training; and provide a central source of information about laser-based research. Scope: The workshop has received commitment for financial support from various organizations of the Government of Jordan, the UNESCO, the Royal Jordanian Scientific Society and from the International Center for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Trieste. NSF support will be primarily for the cost of travel and per diem of U.S. scientists, and for travel of Indian scientists, as well as publication costs. The project has the endorsement and backing of the Jordanian Higher Council of Science and Technology and the University of Jordan. It is likely to lead to the enhancement of laser-based research in Jordan and other countries in the region and to increased collaboration with the U.S.
