For the forward-thinking scientist, it is interesting and instructive to learn about new trends in computing such as DNA computers, optical computing, and quantum computing. DNA computers are especially fun. They use standard molecular biology laboratory techniques as a model of a general-purpose computer. They can implement algorithms, store data, and in general behave like a "real" computer. They are impractical as of this writing, but they are really fun to think about, and someday, who knows?