Choose to be Curious Ep. #283: In Praise of (Curiosity-Driven) Research, with Anthony Zador
Jun 12, 2025
Anthony Zador, Allie Davis Harris Professor of Biology at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, advocates for the importance of curiosity-driven research. He discusses how genuine curiosity can lead to groundbreaking discoveries, highlighting its distinction from applied science. Zador shares fascinating anecdotes, such as the unexpected success of Gila monster venom in obesity treatment. The conversation also addresses current challenges in funding scientific research and the critical role of public engagement in nurturing curiosity and innovation.
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Gila Monster Venom Leads to Ozempic
- The study of Gila monster venom in the 1990s led to the development of Ozempic, a major drug for obesity control.
- No one could have predicted the practical impact from such curiosity-driven research at the time.
Science Funding Like Venture Capital
- Science funding should mirror venture capital: many seeds, most fail, but some create breakthroughs.
- Basic science needs broad support despite uncertain immediate payoff.
Damage from Gutting Science Funding
- Major federal science funding is being dismantled, causing generational harm to research infrastructure.
- Shutting down labs can't be undone quickly, threatening long-term scientific leadership.