You know, from reading the newspaper and from professional society organizations, that federal research funding is increasing substantially this year. It appears that American leaders are recognizing the significance of research to the ongoing prosperity of our nation. Research and the spin-offs of research, including broad educational agendas and the products enjoyed by society, are booming. Over half the increase in American productivity during the past 50 years is attributed to research. Aside from its overarching role in society, research and its corollaries are what distinguish universities from other educational institutions, such as high schools and community colleges.
Research is a complex and multifaceted activity.
We are wrong if we think of research as consisting only of the researcher producing results. Let me focus on three other aspects of research. You wanted to prove something mathematical and you did. Large-scale research involves teamwork in which faculty and students strive together to solve problems. 3.Finally, when the research is complete, society enjoys a wide range of sometimes surprising products that stem directly from the research, e.g., computer chips, cures for diseases, and others.