AIDS: Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) director, presented the strategies for HIV vaccine research and development for the Institute at the Conference on Advances in AIDS Vaccine Development: 1996. The plan, calling for both fundamental and empiric research, seeks also to develop partnerships between the Institute and industry sponsors, identify and exploit scientific opportunities to accelerate HIV vaccine research, and strengthen collaborative interactions with other public and private organizations. Dr. Fauci is optimistic that a useful HIV vaccine can be developed, despite economic, ethical, and cultural constraints. The ideal vaccine, according to Fauci, will likely occur in stages and ultimately be able to prevent initial infections as well as subsequent disease, be well-tolerated, and provide protection against exposure at mucosal surfaces and through blood.