The formal opening of the new building was originally planned for 8 May 1978, then brought forward to 5 May in order that the President of West Germany, Dr Scheel, could perform the official ceremony. In the event the State Visit of President Brezhnev prevented his attending and the Laboratory was opened by the Minister for Research and Technology. Guests included delegates and government representatives of EMBL and EMBC member states, representatives of the West German Bund and Land, of the…