The Boston Globe


Science in Mind

Biologist warns that search for breakthroughs could impede discovery

When scientists vie for limited federal funding to support their research, they know their proposals will be evaluated based on scientific merits, but other factors come into play, too: a few years ago, the National Institutes of Health asked reviewers to evaluate the overall impact and significance of the work being proposed.

Those seem like incredibly salient qualities to evaluate before handing out funding. No one likes the idea of taxpayer money supporting trivial research.

Loading comments...

You've reached the limit of 10 free articles a month

Stay informed with unlimited access to Boston’s trusted news source.

  • High-quality journalism from the region’s largest newsroom
  • Convenient access across all of your devices
  • Today’s Headlines daily newsletter
  • Less than $1 a week