January 12, 1950.

Dr. T. R. Hogness, Director,

Institute of Radiobiology and Biophysics,
University of Chicago,

Chicago 37, Dllinois.

Dear Dr. Hogness:

I have given very careful consideration to the proposal in
your letter of December 20, 1949, of an appointment in the Insti-
tute of Radiobiology and Blophysics.

At least for the present, I have decided to remain at my pre-
sent post. I am not unappreciative of the generosity and confidence
that are embodied in your proposals. Accordingly, I owe you some
mention of the considerations which underly this decision.

Partly, it is based on simple conservatism or inertia. But, f
have been here a relatively short time- not long enough to form a
definite perspective of tha ultimate opportunities, and limitations.
Consequently, I may entertain hopes of future prospects at “isconsin
which are perhaps more optimistic than they should or will be. Finally,
I feel that I owe some obligation to the unfinished task cof consoli-
dating genetic techniques and viewpoints into Nisconsin's preaminent
research and graduate training in microbiology.

That I shall not be joining the staff in no way detracts from my
sincere good wishes for the continued and growing success of the
Institute, nor froa ay hope that microbial genetics will play a leading
role in the further growth of its research prograc.

May I express my appreciation to the officers of the Institute and
of the University for the compliment entailed in these proposals, and
for tha cordial hospitality which attended my visits.

Yourg sincerely,
ls
Joshua Lederberg