Programme / Thematic session III/g What if? Is curiosity still the main driving force behind revolutionary ideas in science?

It is a well-known fact that many of the major scientific discoveries started out as experiments driven by sheer scientific interest and without any concern over their usefulness, societal or economic impact or practical application. Yet, that is exactly what they have achieved. How do we cherish this potential? How do we make sure that among the growing expectations over the accountability and societal benefits of science funding, we retain the driving force of curiosity and perseverance as a key factor in delivering revolutionary ideas in scientific research? How do we assess the performance, deal with the unpredictability and manage high expectations?

This session will portray scientist whose passion to pursuit their research is proof that the seemingly unproductive human instinct of curiosity is still the main driving force behind disrupting innovation.

The panel will provide an opportunity to discuss about the true value and the societal perception of basic research, the pitfalls of its funding mechanisms and offer an insight to inspiring stories behind great scientific discoveries.