The Woodley Park Institute is an independent research organization focused on understanding the dynamics of scientific progress and the role of funding systems in shaping discovery. Improvements in data availability, together with advanced analytical approaches and increased computing power, have made it possible to study scientific progress empirically. WPI leverages these developments to measure rates of scientific progress, identify emerging areas, and predict future scientific breakthroughs.

Both funders and practitioners of science recognize the importance of cutting-edge research, but in reality, ideas that are unfamiliar or challenge existing paradigms are frequently received with skepticism. Studies have found that as grant proposals become more novel, reviewers uniformly and systematically assign them worse scores; recognition of novel research papers is delayed, and is more likely to come from investigators working outside their field of origin. Since peer recognition drives success in the competition for funding, the development of truly transformative ideas can be delayed by a lack of resources, slowing the arrival of breakthrough technologies and therapeutics. Reliable predictions can de-risk early stage investments for policymakers, research administrators, donors, and executives alike, speeding progress towards new treatments and technologies.

WPI is currently seeking individual donors and established nonprofit partners working to advance biomedical research who are interested in piloting data-guided decision-making. Organizations or individuals interested in exploring potential collaborations or pilot programs are invited to contact WPI through the form linked below or by emailing info at woodleyparkinstitute dot org.

The Federation of American Scientists, who have been working since 1945 to deploy science and technology to build a healthier, safer, more prosperous and more equitable world, sponsors the nonprofit status of WPI.  Donors can also support WPI by navigating to the FAS website through the button below, then choose “Fiscal Sponsorship Donation” in the “Donation Purpose” field. Be sure to name WPI as the project that should receive your support.