Leverage Research

Overview

Leverage Research is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to scientific advancement, with a focus on early-stage science. The organization conducts research into the historical origins of scientific discoveries and supports fundamental research in fields that have not achieved the same level of success as the hard sciences, particularly in the social sciences.

Mission

The mission of Leverage Research involves several key areas:

1. Research into Historical Origins of Science: Leverage Research conducts in-depth studies into the historical origins of early scientific discoveries to understand the underlying principles that drive scientific progress.
2. Basic Research: It supports and engages in basic research in areas like social sciences that have not yet achieved the same level of success as the hard sciences.
3. Communication and Dissemination: The organization communicates its findings to scientists, funders, policymakers, and the public to foster broader understanding and support for emerging scientific fields.

History

Leverage Research has undergone significant transformations. Initially, it was part of a broader, decentralized research collaboration known as Leverage 1.0, which operated from 2011 until its dissolution in 2019. This early phase involved a wide range of projects and included several organizations and nearly 45 people. However, due to various challenges, the collaboration was disbanded, and Leverage Research refocused as a more centralized institution with defined roles and responsibilities. Today, it operates with a smaller team focused on early-stage science, including programs in the history of science, exploratory psychology, and bottlenecks in science and technology.

Operations and Funding

Leverage Research is registered as a 501(c)(3) organization, making donations tax deductible. In recent years, its revenue has primarily come from contributions, with little to no income from other sources like program services or investments. The organization employs a small team of about five individuals.

Legal and Financial Status

As a nonprofit, Leverage Research files annual Form 990 reports, demonstrating transparency and compliance with regulatory requirements. Its executive compensation and salaries are documented in these reports.

Organizational Structure

The organization has a sister entity called Paradigm Academy, which provides training and incubates startups. This affiliation suggests a broader network aimed at promoting scientific and social advancements.

Public Impact

Through its work, Leverage Research aims to bridge gaps between academic research and practical applications, fostering a broader understanding and support for scientific progress in society.

[1] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/1f197d772020406c861e3c1c8fcaea7f-leverage-research-oakland [2] https://givefreely.com/charity-directory/nonprofit/ein-453989386/ [3] https://www.lesswrong.com/w/leverage-research [4] https://forum.effectivealtruism.org/topics/leverage-research [5] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/453989386