What industry do you believe curiosity thrives MOST in? 

I.e. tech, finance, defense, or go deeper if desired. Must pick only one.

probably academic research at universities

Tend to agree as most my friends that go into research are motivated by a desire for knowledge. 

However, this essay was really eye opening:

https://www.briantimar.com/notes/mimetic/mimetic/

Mathematics and physics for sure- so much of the research is theoretical and looking for connections/ patterns (and imo sometimes meaning) in the universe