What key difference may exist in the research focus between a civil servant scientist and a researcher at an affiliated institution like JPL?

Answer

The affiliated researcher might have more freedom to pursue fundamental, curiosity-driven research.

While both groups collaborate, affiliated researchers sometimes possess more freedom to pursue fundamental, curiosity-driven research, whereas civil servants often focus more directly on established agency programs.

What key difference may exist in the research focus between a civil servant scientist and a researcher at an affiliated institution like JPL?
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