‘Failed’ experiment produces a bacterial Trojan horse by Katie Weber. Interestingly the usefulness of Penicillin, the most popular bacteria fighting agent, was discovered by accident (and then a smart scientist learning from the accident and applying that knowledge to creating an incredibly useful medication).
The discovery also led to the startup of a promising new biotechnology firm that has already brought Wisconsin a dozen new, high-paying, highly skilled jobs.
This is yet another example of the power of scientists and engineers to boost the economy and society at large.
Related: Drug Resistant Bacteria More Common – Leverage Universities to Transform State Economy – blog posts on bacteria and anti-biotics – Entirely New Antibiotic Developed – Economic Benefits and Science Higher Education – Science Education and Jobs – Universities Focus on Economic Benefits
That is one huge advantage with these new forms of scholarship – we can publish not only what worked but also everthing that didn’t, leading to the successful experiment. (e.g. http://usefulchem.wikispaces.com/dopal )
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