Using terminology that tries to satisfy political masters as well as the research endeavour can be risky (Nature 466, 922–923; 2010). Part of the reduction in usage of the term 'basic research' is probably due to the emergence of 'translational research', which puts new knowledge to practical use. As a result, basic scientists have popularized the term 'discovery research'. But all types of research are important.

Research is a pipeline for ideas that occasionally sprout into useful applications for generating wealth, which in turn helps to support more investment in discovery. This process has been examined to death but is unpredictable by its very nature. All we can do is ensure that the best quality is achieved at every level, and that we do not inadvertently limit the resources and ideas of those who practise this bizarre but essential driver of progress.