Summary:
- The article profiles Colorado scientist Phoebe Cohen, who is an assistant professor of geosciences at Williams College and a vocal advocate for curiosity-driven scientific research.
- Cohen argues that fundamental, curiosity-driven research is essential for advancing scientific knowledge and making important discoveries, even if the practical applications are not immediately clear.
- She highlights the importance of funding and supporting a diverse range of scientific pursuits, from the study of ancient microbes to the search for habitable exoplanets, to drive innovation and progress.