Lerner was awarded the academic degree of Candidate. in 1954. that of Doctor of Science. and in 1955. the academic title of Professor. He became a member of the prestigious Academy of Sciences of the U.S.S.R.. and was the author of 168 scientific works. 12 books among them. many of which have been translated into several languages. Professor Lerner held a prominent position in Soviet society until 1971the year he applied for an exit visa. After submitting a petition concerning his decision to leave for Israel. Professor Lerner was dismissed from all his duties. His daughter was discharged from her position as mathematics researcher. and his son. an engineer in systers analysis. was fired and has been forced to work at odd. unskilled jobs. In a statement transmitted from Moscow on March 30. 1976. Professor Lerner emphasizes that there is no basis to the "knowing State secrets" as a reason for refusing him a visa. Any participation in projects of a confidential nature have long been discontinued and made public in the West. Lerner had also been allowed to travel abroada privilege denied to those privy to State secrets.