April/May 2006

Markus Fischer, of German biotech company Entelechon, overcomes the complications associated with gene synthesis

Felix Grant takes a look at the foundations of mathematical modelling

It is well known that equations and algorithms used in rocket science are used in Wall Street, but that is not the only crossover between hard-core scientific computing and the commercial world. Scientific research progresses because researchers constantly come up with new ways to meet the challenges thrown up by their research goals.

Rob Meyer, CEO, Numerical Algorithms Group

Ray Girvan looks at the latest applications for mapping technology

OriginLab has created a standard for rich transmission of technical graphics, argues Felix Grant

Felix Grant breaks out from the usual channels and looks for examples of analytical and visualisation software that have not already been reviewed.

From a dune in the depths of the Sahel desert, Felix Grant accessed free statistics software using a handheld. But, he discovered, there are costs other than monetary ones.

Ray Girvan wonders why the latest upgrade of Maplesoft's maths program wasn't around when he was at university

As an analytical chemist and new user, Alan Wicks enjoyed coming to terms with ChemOffice.