August 18, 1955

Dr. Abraham White

Associate Dean

Albert Einstein College of Medicine
1710 Newport Avenue

New York 61, N.Y.

Dear Dr. Shite:

Thank you for your letter of August 9. Would it be possible for you
to give me a partial answer to some of my questions that were asked in
my previous letter, before arranging any further discussions?

T have given the matter considerable thought during the last week,
and I would conelude that this excellent opportunity has simply presented
itself five or ten years too soon. At the present time, I am still too
guch interested in the laboratory to consider myself available for a posi-
tion that would probably keep me out of it moat of the time. I am conscious
of the challenge and opportunity for public service that are at stake » but
not only ay inclinations but agy competence have to be considered. If the
facts that I asked for would put a different aspect on the position, I will
be happy te consider thea, Otherwies, I should have tu conclude now that
I was simply not yet ready for the position, and that 1t would be a waste
of tims, ebergy and money to proceed with further discussions.

If I can be af any further serice, please Let we Know.

Yours sincerely,

Joshua Lederberg :
Professor of Genstics ~