<<The best curators (not just in the collections area, but in research and exhibitions as well) I have met are generalists, and know enough to do basic research and >> I think you can draw an analogy with the current discussion in education-should a math(science, French etc) teacher be an excellent teacher or have excellent knowledge of mathematics? The answer is both, of course, but that may not be an option. Likewise, should a curator be trained in "museum science" or should a curator be expert in subject matter? Again, the answer should be both but, I feel, not an option with many young professionals in history museums and sites. I think natural history museums and major art museums have avoided this pitfall, for the most part.