Mistakes in science are common, in the lab we’re usually taught to throw our experiment and redo it properly. But what about the people who looked closer at the unusual results they obtained from their “failed” experiment? And what about the times that paid off?

Each week we will explore how a different accident or mistake led to an important scientific discovery. We will address the ubiquity of mistakes in science and the value provided in learning from them, both tangible and intangible. Over the course of the semester, students will be expected to attend a weekly in class lecture, write two short papers, and do a final presentation.

Class will be on Thurs 7-8pm in 120 Wheeler starting 2/1