Over the years, through the work of ICR scientists and others, the scientific case for creation has been honed into a defensible, credible model. But some tough questions still need better answers. How does light from distant stars reach us in a young universe? How about radioisotope dating? What scientific evidence is there for the young earth?

No creation scientist has been more committed to deriving convincing, technical answers to these tough questions than physicist Dr. Russell Humphreys. From his current position on the research staff at Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico, Dr. Humphreys has accomplished a great deal, but now he has agreed to join the full-time faculty of ICR on October 1, 2001, in order to devote all his ample energies to creationist research.

I first met Russ on an ICR trip to Grand Canyon in 1985. Fourteen years before, Russ had turned from atheism to Christ as his Savior and was already fully interested in bolstering the young-earth argument related to magnetic field decay.

Since that time, his participation in creation research has been stellar, and increasingly fruitful.

In particular, he has collaborated with ICR's Dr. Steve Austin in developing the air-tight argument for recent creation regarding introduction of sodium into the ocean. He is a major contributor to the RATE research (Radioisotopes and the Age of The Earth), most recently demonstrating both theoretically and physically that alpha decay products are incompatible with long-age ideas but fully supportive of the young-earth position.

His most interesting and promising work, however, is in regard to starlight from distant stars. His unique solution to this sticky problem is found in his book, Starlight and Time, available from ICR for $6.95. We look forward to his increased availability to further buttress this issue as well as others.

This is a step of faith for ICR, for our financial picture hardly warrants addition of Dr. Humphreys and his research costs. I had been anticipating a major gift to "endow" his position, but this has not come through. However, I believe this step will further creation ministry significantly, and that God is pleased with this desire to understand Him and His mighty work more completely.

Thus, I ask all the ICR family to support this step with your prayers and gifts. If you know of possible large donors or foundation grant sources of funding, please help by putting us in contact with decision makers. With your help, much can be accomplished.