NPR’s Science desk is looking to recognize folks working in any area of science with what we are calling “The Golden Mole Award for Accidental Brilliance.”
The Golden Mole Award is a celebration of scientists’ ability to recognize an accident/coincidence/mistake as an opportunity for new research/discovery. For example, an accident lead to Alexander Fleming realizing the potential of mold – the discovery of penicillin! This is one of the most famous examples of serendipity in science — and we're looking for *modern* examples. They don't have to be as revolutionary as Fleming's dirty dishes. They just need to demonstrate how mistakes, surprises, and coincidences can turn into valuable insights in the mind of a curious scientist. Stories can be submitted here! <http://skunkbear.tumblr.com/goldenmole> ( skunkbear.tumblr.com/goldenmole) The deadline is Feb. 5. We'll feature the top nominees, and one (twice-lucky) scientist will go home with a trophy — *The Golden Mole Award for Accidental Brilliance* updates can be found on twitter: @nprskunkbear and our science tumblr <applewebdata://9BF96596-D249-4E53-825F-8A1C3DF7A976/skunkbear.tumblr.com> Thanks so much for spreading the word! In case it might be helpful for social you can see the two videos related to this award here <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYrXy9odt3A> and here <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5eUuPyuYBw>. You can also see the original post on NPR.org <http://www.npr.org/2016/01/28/464710799/npr-contest-send-us-your-stories-of-happy-accidents-in-science>. Let me know if you have any questions or comments. You can also email rkell...@npr.org for more info. or me at ac...@npr.org
