Guiding Principles

UBC is an open learning institution whose primary objective is teaching, research and publication of research results. As such, there is a fundamental requirement to ensure that all projects do not hinder the academic advancement of students and their ability to publish the results of our research. When working with industry, these requirements must be balanced against the company's need to protect its proprietary information and promote its business interests.

Confidentiality & Publication

As an open university, UBC is not ideally suited for the management of company proprietary information. However, as access to confidential information is often necessary to advance the research process, UBC can accept and agree to protect confidential information under the terms of an non-disclosure agreement. More Details

Student Advancement

All students conducting academic or scientific research are bound by, and free to conduct such research, in accordance with UBC's Principal Research and Education Policies.
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Intellectual Property

Ownership and access rights to intellectual property will be determined at the project outset. Each project must consider: the nature of the interaction; stage of research; common practices in the technology sector; background rights; and the scientific and financial participation of both parties. More Details

Indemnity/Disclaimer of Warranty
The university does not assume risk for commercial use of research results. Intellectual property provided to a company will be on an "as is" basis and the company will be required to indemnify the University for its use

Ethics
Conduct of research will be in accordance with the university research policies regarding the use of human subjects, animals, radioactive materials and biohazards

Conflicts of Interest and Commitment
All conflicts of interest and conflicts of commitment must be fully disclosed at the outset of the project

No Competition
The university endeavors not to compete with the local private sector in providing research services

Cost of Research
Amounts charged for the provision of research (by fee or royalty) may vary significantly according to the proportionate sharing of costs, risks, and benefits.