The Legacy of Tom Slick

Tom Slick, widely recognized as a significant figure in the oil industry and a notable adventurer, also made his mark as an inventor and philanthropist. Among his most cherished contributions is the establishment of the Mind Science Foundation in 1958, aimed at exploring the potential of the human mind through scientific research.

Although Slick tragically lost his life in a plane crash in 1962, his vision for the foundation endures. Under the guidance of CEO Meriam Musa Good and Chief Scientist Ben Rein, the Mind Science Foundation continues its mission.

Current Initiatives and Research Focus

The foundation is engaged in supporting a variety of research areas, tackling issues such as morbid obesity, advancing dementia studies, the impact of isolation, and the effects of psychedelics on the brain. Despite its crucial work, the foundation remains relatively under the radar outside scientific circles.

“We’re a hidden gem,” said Good. “We’re right there in Olmos Park, across from the fire department, doing our work, encouraging and funding young scientists, and also having educational outreach so that people in this room can learn about their brains.”

Annual BrainStorm Neuroscience Pitch Competition

One of the foundation’s hallmark events is the annual BrainStorm Neuroscience Pitch Competition. This event funds research from early-career scientists, aiming to promote innovative studies that could lead to breakthroughs in neuroscience. Recent competition winners have explored topics including:

• The effects of psychedelics on various disorders
• The scientific understanding of dreams and potential modifications thereof
• The correlation between social isolation and cognitive decline

The upcoming 2025 BrainStorm competition is currently accepting applications until May 9. Interested candidates can find more information about the application process on the Mind Science website.

The Importance of Public Engagement in Science

In a world where skepticism toward science is prevalent, both Good and Rein emphasize the need for researchers to build better connections with the public. Rein articulated this necessity by stating:

“I feel that we need to, as a field, as researchers, be more clear and accessible and engage the public more effectively.”

Good echoed these sentiments, noting that a lack of trust in science often stems from ineffective communication. She remarked, “It’s tragic that people don’t trust science, but I think it’s because they haven’t been communicated with in a way that makes sense to them.”

Further Listening

For those interested in learning more about the Mind Science Foundation and its efforts to propel scientific understanding, the latest episode of the “bigcitysmalltown” podcast features insights from Good and Rein. You can listen to the episode here: