March 6, 1959
To: Dr. G. W. Beadle
Dr. E. Caspari
Dr. M. Delbruck
Dr. Th. Dobzhansky
Dr. L. C. Dunn
Dr. N. Giles
Dr. B. Glass
Dr. J. Lederberg
Dr. H. J. Muller
Dr. M. M. Rhoades
Dr. H. Roman
Dr. T. M. Sonneborn
Dr. C. Stern
Dear Friends:
The purpose of this letter is to raise some questions about the future of Cold Spring Harbor as a center of genetics.  It is likely that a decision will soon be made as to Demerec's successor at Carnegie; this will, of course, affect the Biological Laboratory as well.
Clearly, this decision is a very serious one.  Demerec's administration has been so successful that a preservation of the present standards becomes a major concern for all geneticists.  However, my impression is that neither Demerec, nor his present staff, nor any representative group of geneticists has been asked to define goals and criteria for the selection of a Director for Carnegie.  It seems likely that the choice rests exclusively in Haskins' hands.
However awkward it is to butt into the affairs of another Institution, I wonder whether we, who have all been associated more or less closely at various times with Cold Spring Harbor's activities, are not entitled to express to Haskins the concern of geneticists in this matter.  One possible suggestion may be the appointment of an ad hoc advisory committee.
Could you let me know rather promptly (say by the fifteenth) (a) whether you feel that any steps are indicated; (b) if so, which steps you suggest; and (c) whether, if no better suggestions are made, you would in principle be willing to sign a letter to Haskins expressing our concern and suggesting that he calls together some sort of advisory group.
In replying, please note my present address (which will be permanent after September 1, 1959).
With best regards,
Cordially,
S. E. Luria