How to get into Scientific Programming

( also posted to 
sci.research.careers,comp.programming,sci.physics,sci.physics.computational.fluid-dynamics,sci.math.num-analysis
)

Hi all,

I was wondering if anyone could give me feedback on this topic. I am
34, have a scientific background, with Bachelor's Degrees in Physics
and Math, graduate work in Physics and Optics culminating with an MS
in Optics. I have worked as an engineer, and then as a programmer for
the last 5 years. However, it has been comercial programming (using
Microsoft technologies such as Vsual C++, ASP, etc) and while I am
thankful to have a job in the current economic climate, I am also
unhappy with the kind of work I am doing. I would like to do some sort
of scientific programming, but I have not had much success applying to
such jobs. They either require an existing security clearance or ask
for tons of prior scientific programming experience.

So my questions are:

1) What do you think my chances are of getting such a scientific
programming job? Would you expect a big difference when the economy
improves, hopefully in a few years?

2) Any suggestions of specific places where I can apply for a
relatively entry level scientific programming position?

2) Are scientific programming jobs more secure than your typical
commercial position? I have heard that being over 40 and a commercial
programmer is a risky place to be, because of age discrimination and
general outsourcing. Are there many scientific programmers who so that
till they retire?

If I can't find such a job, I am considering getting an MBA, but I
really think I would not enjoy that type of work nearly as much.

Thanks,

-Sam Banerjee