From MRI to Ozempic: breakthroughs that show why fundamental research must be protected

Breakthroughs in Fundamental Research

Fundamental research, which seeks to advance knowledge for its own sake, has led to numerous groundbreaking discoveries, including MRI technology and Ozempic.

In times of financial constraint, it is crucial for funders to recognize that significant discoveries often arise from work that was initially exploring something entirely different.

Great discoveries often arise from work that was looking for something completely different.

Examples of such breakthroughs include MRI, which emerged from fundamental, curiosity-driven science, and demonstrate the importance of protecting funding for basic research.

Around the world, budgets for fundamental research are under pressure, highlighting the need to preserve support for these studies.

Author's Summary

Fundamental research yields unexpected breakthroughs, emphasizing its importance.

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Nature Nature — 2025-10-30

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