Poland - Science and technology



Destruction of the Polish scientific community, buildings, and equipment during World War II was nearly total, requiring a tremendous rebuilding program. Attached to the various university faculties and government bodies are institutes, laboratories, and clinics devoted primarily to research, but some offering advanced instruction. In 1952, the Polish Academy of Sciences, established in Warsaw, replaced the old Polish Academy of Sciences and Letters of Cracow; it has sections of biological sciences; mathematical, physical, and chemical sciences; technical sciences; agricultural and forestry sciences; medical sciences; and earth and mining sciences. As of 1996, 54 scientific and technological research institutes were affiliated with the Academy of Sciences, and there were 101 scientific and technological research institutes attached to government ministries. Research and development expenditures in 1987–97 amounted to 0.8% of GNP. Personnel engaged in research and development in 1987–97 included 1,358 scientists and engineers and 1,377 technicians per million people. In 1996, Poland had 50 universities offering courses in basic and applied sciences. In 1987–1997, science and engineering students accounted for 28% of university enrollment. In Warsaw are located a botanical garden and museums devoted to zoology, technology, and the earth. The Polish Maritime Museum is located in Gdansk. The Nicholas Kopernik Museum in Frambork includes exhibits on the history of medicine and astronomy.

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