Thompson bids for research unit

Gov. Thompson yesterday lent his support to Illinois' bid tocapture the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences.

The center will select and direct national research in machinetool and computer manufacturing technology.

Speaking before NCMS and state manufacturing representatives atArgonne National Laboratory near Batavia, Thompson said the center isfor "looking to the future of basic industry in America."

Illinois is one of a handful of states competing for the center.To be chosen, Illinois must muster significant in-state support fromindustry and offer other educational and financial incentives, stateofficials said.

Illinois must submit its …