Interesting article on the anatomy of funded research in PNAS: http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2015/10/21/1513651112.abstract.html?etoc May not be surprising to many, but the information is quite interesting and the method for analysis appears scientifically valid. Will things continue in the direction of fewer and fewer getting more and more? The authors conclude by saying, "A better understanding of successful project formations, therefore, provides an insight into how to thrive in such a challenging landscape, and can potentially have far-reaching implications for government policy on research investment worldwide." The understanding on the part of researchers is there already, as we are being trained, either right or wrong in how to navigate an increasingly challenging funding system. It is the government policy in this area that needs to be altered.
Steve
