Contentious issues in sponsored research in university-industry partnerships

Abstract

In the face of growing recognition of the importance and complexity of relations between universities and the private sector there is increasing need for guidelines to back such relationships. University-industry partnerships are beneficial to both parties but require clear understanding of fundamental university policies and procedures and of the complimentary but differing goals of the university and industry. Sponsored research activities can provide faculty members with experience and knowledge valuable to teaching and research and also help students gain educational opportunities and experience. Such activities also facilitate the transfer of technology to improve the well-being and productivity of society and offer research opportunities through which a faculty member can make a contribution to knowledge. As important and beneficial as sponsored research is in a globalized knowledge economy, university-industry partnership is burdened with some contentious issues (university, researchers and sponsors) from all parties. These issues may be peculiar to a particular situation and time but need to be identified and handled through careful planning, management and administration. Therefore quality data is required to provide a basis for legislation, policy and programs. Other issues that need to be addressed are moral and ethical matters, ownership of research results (patent), researchers’ right, publication of research results and conflict between teaching and research. This study is a descriptive survey designed to identify and proffer solutions to the contentious issues in sponsored research. Interviews and document analysis are instruments used to gather information from the parties involved in the sponsored research activities. Based on the findings appropriate recommendations are made to minimize if possible remove contentious issues completely. The study will be useful to both faculty, researchers, university administrators who work closely with the industry as well as the industry which need to improve its products and services through quality research.

Keywords: Sponsored research; contentious issues; University-Industry Partnership