Ten Considerations
for Planning Your Research Relationship
Go/No-Go?
Ten Considerations
Research Contracts
Warning Signs
Your Research Image
Strength in NumbersPurpose
Potential pitfalls and tripwires are often only understood after agreements are signed and mistakes are made. Our aim is to share our experiences to guide fellow researchers in navigating these relationships.
You Can Say “No”
Make sure to carefully consider if you want to enter into partnership with a corporation.
Many issues can arise that threaten your integrity as a researcher, the integrity of your research itself, and result in your work causing additional harm.
Corporations might have a strong interest in gathering data about certain populations, and you risk becoming a conduit to data that they want to exploit for purposes other than your research.
University Research Administration
In some universities, your research administration office can be a valuable resource.
They may offer consultations on contracting advice, rules regarding foreign participation in research, data, and research ownership.
If you encounter challenges with an established research partnership, consider seeking guidance from the research office.
Perceived Conflicts of Interest
Even with expertly safeguarded work, your reputation may be at risk when taking corporate finances. Other researchers, corporations, and the public may view you as a corporate mouthpiece.
Be mindful of how the company represents you, your image, and your research in the partnership.
Be aware of whether you have agreed to promotional material. If you have, know how you will be represented in promotional material and when.
Actual Conflicts of Interest
Taking funding from corporations can impact your research.
Corporate interests may impact the way you conduct the work, how you and the company frame your findings, and limit the possible conclusions under the threat of future funding.
Become familiar with how these interests may bleed into your work and prepare strategies for pushing back against these pressures.
The Research Contract
It is integral to start with a strong research contract and read this document carefully. Wherever possible, consult with a lawyer before signing.
Ensure that you have control over processes, timelines, and the payment schedules.
Seek support from your institution to help translate what the contract says and what you could be signing onto.Learn more about contracts here
Research Partners within the Company
Your relationship will differ depending on the department. Always be sure to know who you are partnering with within the company.
Ask yourself whether you are in discussions with the research team, the product team, or legal.
There is always a difference between working with advertising and promotion vs. production and design.Learn more about contracts here
Funding Types and Research Autonomy
The type of funding offered to you might help mitigate some of these challenges. For example, gifts tend to be broad and not too narrow.
Try to ensure the type of financial exchange will not limit your research possibilities.
Directed research donations will most likely dictate which project you are to undertake. This might risk your research integrity.
Types of Companies
Research challenges can differ based on the kind of company you are partnering with.
Consider the distinctions between: new start-ups vs. established companies, small vs. big companies, and known vs. unknown companies.
Each carries different considerations about track records, financial stability, transparency, and risks.
Trust and Trustworthiness
Gather information about the company from reliable, independent sources before committing to agreements. Ask yourself: Do I trust the company I am going to work with?
Consider if your goals and interests in this research align with the company's goals and interests.
Is the company acting in bad faith? Consider the details you know about the company, and how you know about them.
Company Track Record
Before entering into a partnership, try to find out the corporate history and track record of working with researchers.
Research other partners who have worked with the company.
Contact trusted research peers and inquire with your University Research Office.