So, what I understood is that universities are happy to reap the rewards from the research of their academics, but not help their academics financially to get t

So, what I understood is that universities are happy to reap the rewards from the research of their academics, but not help their academics financially to get their research done. It seems to me that some research areas may yield benefits and recognition in academia, but their potential remains undervalued, and as such underfunded. Sadly, I think it comes down to what has the broadest appeal or wow-factor to get some traction and recognition. A lot of publishing associated with research tends to be esoteric too, which may advance the field, but also fall behind in public recognition. In a way, it makes sense if the costs associated with the rewards appear to be out of balance in the eyes of those delegating funds, so more work may be needed to better communicate the potential rewards.