The Macroscience Podcast
Macroscience Podcast: Ben Reinhardt
May 17, 2024
Ben Reinhardt, CEO of Speculative Technologies, leads a non-profit focused on pioneering research for public good. He discusses the shortcomings of the innovation ecosystem in fostering pre-commercial research and highlights his initiative, BRAINS, likening it to a 'Y Combinator' for research. The conversation dives into the empowering dynamics of research leadership, the bureaucratic hurdles faced in academia, and the necessity for innovative funding structures. Reinhardt argues that independent, exploratory organizations can redefine traditional scientific incentives.
28:20
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Quick takeaways
- Ben Reinhardt emphasizes the importance of creating new institutional models like Speculative Technologies to support exploratory research neglected by traditional frameworks.
- The podcast highlights the systemic flaws in academia that pressure researchers towards novelty, hindering the development of practical technologies and innovations.
Deep dives
Ben Reinhart's Journey to Speculative Technologies
Ben Reinhart's journey reflects a desire to create impactful technology that current institutions fail to support adequately. He initially pursued a PhD in aerospace engineering, aspiring to translate theoretical ideas into practical applications. However, experiences at NASA and in venture capital revealed systemic challenges within governmental and startup environments, leading him to question the viability of his goals within traditional frameworks. This path prompted Reinhart to establish Speculative Technologies, aiming to innovate through a new institutional model that fosters pre-commercial exploratory research.
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