The needs of research universities are discussed in a statement before Congress, with attention to graduate education, young researchers, research instrumentation, and research facilities. The increasing overhead costs associated with doing research are also addressed, along with the appropriate federal role in fostering university/industry partnerships. There is a serious shortage of graduate students in certain fields, and federal support for graduate education has been substantially reduced. Difficulties face young researchers in their careers. Out-of-date research equipment is also a concern, as the most serious problem facing research universities is deteriorating research laboratories. The six major research agencies of the government should cooperatively address these priority areas facing research universities. Some of the issues are illustrated by the experience at Cornell University. (SW)