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Published online 11 June 2008 | Nature 453, 846-849 (2008) | doi:10.1038/453846a
News Feature
Translational research: A case history
The Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research is focused on translating research into cures. Helen Pearson investigates whether its sometimes unusual methods are producing results.
There were two phones on the Baltic island: one in the barn near where Webster Cavenee was seeking seclusion to write up a paper, the other on a village telephone pole. Both were ringing.
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With the headlines "investigation", "case study" you can't help but to predict the inside story, the scandal, the juicy details. What Helen Pearson 'discovered' is a very focused organization with a mission. Academia, in which I reside is all about process. The outcome is almost secondary, it is all about the meetings, conversations, consensus. Process is what peer-review is all about. Does it result in a better outcome? It depends upon what you value. If the Ludwig fails to mirror the process of major federal funding agencies, it is because it is not. It is the vision of Daniel Ludwig and those he entrusted to protect it. To keep a focus and to remain on course. Not necessarily to placate those who value process over outcome. Success will of course come with time, the LICR spends a small fraction of what other organizations spend. Finally, Lloyd Old, for those of us privileged to know him, is most gracious, intelligent and scholarly. Pearson's description follows suit, a man only a few days removed from major surgery still finding the time to answer questions. The portrayal is simply insensitive and rude, but of course this is the way to sell copy.