Pentagon Turns to Hollywood for National Security  

Josh Hurd has had a passion for science since high school, but he plans to go to law school after graduating from Dartmouth College.


"In dealing with environmental issues, it's not the scientists who are influencing policy," he said, "rather, it's the politicians. Scientists don't have that much impact on the actual policy being implemented. Law is where I feel I can make the most difference."


That kind of attitude is worrisome to the nation's top researchers — and the Defense Department as well.



As a growing number of top college graduates pursue careers in investment banking, consulting and law, they say the nation is suffering from a dangerous shortage of scientists and engineers.


"There are many reasons for this trend, the possibility of a lucrative job right after graduation," said Patricia Rose, director of career services at the University of Pennsylvania. "These jobs are very attractive and pay well."