05: Values in Science

Basic or curiosity-driven scientific research is mostly done at academic institutions by faculty members and their students, and its traditional aim is to advance human know-how in all natural sciences. Scientists at “for profit” organizations mostly conduct applied research. In recent years, academic scientists are under pressure to focus their research on “relevant” issues which are important for society and for the respective national economy. This trend is causing academic investigators to engage in problem-solving topics or profit/product oriented research. The recent financial crisis and growing media coverage on some of the dubious practices, in terms of human and resource management, of various globally operating firms are endangering the economic and business values which are derived from scientific research. This seminar provides an opportunity to look into the causes for these changes, the effects they are having in the USA, Europe, Asia and other countries and to discuss ways of how to improve the ability of industries and governments to promote and incorporate innovative early-stage scientific projects from academia for the economic benefit of society at large.

Topics
1. Curiosity-Driven Research in Academia. Do Scientists Have the Freedom to Change Topics?
2. Scientific Values Obtained from Basic Academic Research Versus Applied Research
3. Driving Forces and Incentives in Academic Research and for Scientists in Industry
4. Academia-Industry-Investor-Government Policies and Management of Scientific Research
5. Intellectual Property, Technology Transfer, the “Death Valley”, Translational Science

Conclusion: How to improve the contributions of basic research to industry and the world economy without causing damage to academic culture and ethics.