A six-part exploration of university life today.

John Ericksson runs Edinburgh's smallest department. As professor of Defence Studies, he has a staff of one - his secretary. In the early 50s he was a national service sergeant with the British Army. Today he is one of the world's leading experts on the Soviet military machine, consulted by governments in Europe, Asia and the United States.

Jeff Collins, as professor of electrical engineering, runs one of the biggest and most prestigious departments at Edinburgh, backed by an enormous budget and the most modern equipment. Its students are the men and women who will help to shape our electronic future.

Both men have knowledge that others would like to buy. One is happy to exploit its commercial value. The other says: 'It is not for sale.'

BBC Scotland