The globalization of scientific research (see, for example, Nature 490, 325–329; 2012) has helped to strengthen diplomatic relations between countries around the world, complementing foreign-policy agendas (Nature 470, 425–427; 2011). This underscores the far-reaching impact of governments' investment in science.

As microbiologist Louis Pasteur (1822–95) aptly remarked, “Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world.”