

The future of science in an age of spending cuts
8 snips Jul 30, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Kenneth Stanley, Senior Vice President at Lila Sciences and author of 'Why Greatness Cannot Be Planned,' addresses the pressing concerns surrounding science funding in the U.S. He explores how funding cuts could reshape research institutions and emphasizes the need for new organizational designs that encourage creativity. Stanley dives into the balance of structure and freedom in research, urging a shift towards unconventional funding models to inspire innovation and navigate the future of science.
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Freedom and Trade-offs in Academia
- Academia offers significant freedom by lacking company objectives and managerial control.
- However, it comes with challenges like fewer resources and time spent on grant applications and teaching.
Industry Labs: Resources vs Freedom
- Industry labs usually offer more resources and fewer distractions compared to academia.
- Yet, they often impose company objectives that can limit freedom and exploration in research.
Pursue New Research Institutions
- Experiment with new types of research organizations beyond traditional academia or corporate labs.
- Funding such novel institutions seriously requires significant commitment and innovative thinking.