Making the World a Safer Place

Abstract
Scientists and engineers have increasingly become involved in developing new tools for counterterrorism measures. In their Perspective, Colton and Russell provide a brief overview of recent advances in addressing decontamination, prevention and protection, and detection needs. While important progress has been made, many questions remain open, such as "How clean is clean enough" when decontaminating a facility. Basic, long-term (20-year) research will be critical for meeting future security and commercial technology needs.