Minister for Higher Education and Science Christina Egelund's speech at The Danish National Research Foundation's annual meeting, November 21, 2026
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Dear Dorthe,
Dear guests.
I would like to begin by acknowledging the positive evaluation report that The Danish National Research Foundation has received. This report is a recognition of the excellent work carried out by the foundation.
At the same time, it is a testament to the vision, courage, and intellectual ambition that characterise Danish research.
When we invest in curiosity-driven, fundamental research, we invest in the long-term future of Denmark, Europe, and the world.
The Danish National Research Foundation has long been a beacon for bold ideas. For decades, you have supported projects that challenge established knowledge, that venture into uncharted territory. That embrace risk.
This is precisely what characterises fundamental research.
Fundamental research does not come with a guarantee of success. But it does come with the freedom to explore the unknown.
Science, by its very nature, cannot thrive under certainty alone. It is the daring, the unconventional – and sometimes even the seemingly absurd and impossible ideas that expand our horizon.
Consider the field of quantum research. Not long ago, it was regarded as purely theoretical. A domain of abstract mathematical models and thought experiments.
Few could have imagined the potential that would emerge from what once seemed merely theoretical.
Today, quantum research supports advances in computing, communications and materials. It is shaping the future of entire industries and has become a strategic priority all over the world.
The lesson here is clear: What may appear as obscure or speculative today may become tomorrow’s strategic priority.
And because we cannot predict which areas of research will transform society, fundamental research must remain an essential component of the research landscape.
History provides numerous examples of such transformative leaps.
The scientific revolution of the 17th century represents a moment when humanity fundamentally redefined its understanding of the world and the universe. Figures like Galileo, Newton and Kepler challenged centuries of conventional wisdom, overturning long-standing views of astronomy, physics and mathematics.
The universe was no longer a static structure with Earth at the very centre. It was dynamic, governed by laws that could be observed, measured and understood.
Later, Einstein’s theories would again revolutionise our concept of space, time and matter. These breakthroughs constituted actual paradigm shifts.
And they were possible because the scientists involved questioned existing assumptions, experimented boldly and pursued ideas that were not guaranteed to succeed.
Today, we still face the potential for paradigm shifts, often at a theoretical or abstract level.
Some of the most profound scientific advances are likely to come from areas that currently seem speculative, even unlikely. Perhaps from areas that do not currently exist.
This is why it is so important to support research without imposing rigid expectations for immediate results.
Curiosity-driven research, conducted in an environment of intellectual freedom, is where transformative discoveries grow.
At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that not every experiment leads to a breakthrough. Many projects will fail, many ideas will not give us the results we hoped for.
But these so-called “failures” are themselves valuable. Every attempt deepens our understanding, challenges our assumptions and teaches us something new.
Thomas Edison – one of the most prolific inventors in history – once said:
“I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.”
This perspective captures the essence of fundamental research.
Each experiment, every idea – even when it does not succeed or become anything – advances our knowledge and understanding.
By acknowledging this and embracing risk, we create a research environment where creativity, boldness and innovation can flourish. And sometimes, "failure" may lead to success. You could characterise it as a “failure", when Alexander Flemming contaminated his petri dishes. But it was probably one of the most important failures of all time, because it led him to discover penicillin, which has saved countless of lives across the globe.
Researchers must have the liberty to explore and to challenge previous assumptions.
Strengthening the autonomy of universities and research institutions and providing them with the resources and trust to pursue long-term inquiry is crucial.
And it is especially important in a world that sometimes seem to be going backwards when it comes to academic freedom.
The Danish government’s new strategic approach to investments in research and innovation sets a course for Danish research and innovation for the foreseeable future. As part of the strategic approach, we raise the amount of core funding to the universities. This is reaffirming our commitment to ensuring that Danish researchers can pursue fundamental questions without interference. This is a matter of trust and principle as well as a strategic investment in Denmark’s future.
Academic freedom and trust are the foundation for great research. But freedom alone is not enough. We also need reflection.
We must take the time to evaluate. To learn from what works and what does not. The positive evaluation of the Danish National Research Foundation is an important reminder of the role that assessment and reflection play in our research ecosystem.
Evaluations provide insight and accountability, but they also recognise the extraordinary achievements that emerge from a culture of curiosity and risk-taking.
Research cannot always be measured solely by short-term metrics or immediate societal impact. The true value of fundamental research emerges over decades – often in ways that are impossible to anticipate.
Such reflection is about perspective. About seeing how the seeds of today’s research may blossom decades from now.
Fundamental research therefore both shapes and defines the future but it is also the key to our preparedness for the future.
It equips society to respond to challenges we cannot yet foresee.
The questions that will shape the 21st century – whether in energy, climate, health or technology – are not yet fully formed.
But by nurturing a robust research ecosystem, by supporting the bold and the unconventional, Denmark ensures that we are ready to meet the future. Whatever it is going to look like. Every theoretical exploration, every question asked, every failed experiment contribute to our collective understanding.
Throughout history, breakthroughs have often begun as bold ideas that challenged the established order.
Galileo questioned the heavens, Newton redefined motion, Einstein reshaped our understanding of space and time. Each of them ventured into the unknown. Not because success was guaranteed, but because curiosity demanded it.
Today we celebrate the success of the Danish National Research Foundation. But let us also celebrate all the so-called failures.
Because progress has never been about absence of failure. It is about the willingness to keep asking questions.
Even when the answers are not yet in sight.
Even when the idea seems obscure and unlikely.
Even after finding 10.000 ways that won’t work.
Thank you.
