I was recently approached by a faculty member who is interested in
something known as Roche Frontiers.  According to a brochure from the
company, "Roche Frontiers is an initiative between Roche and interested
universities to allow Roche to gain fast access to high-quality targets
originating from academia."  (Drug discovery, development and diagnostics).
 The brochure reads that "An easy submission process (web based) for target
proposals ensures an uncomplicated interaction between universities and
Roche."  The brochure speaks of "fixed terms" with very little detail
provided - although they do state that "results from the use of the target
are owned by Roche."  The brochure also urges faculty to "ensure that the
University Technology Office, or equivalent, is aware of (your)
submission."  I think one could reasonably interpret the brochure to say
that a faculty member's submission of a proposal implies institutional
acceptance of pre-established, non-negotiable licensing conditions.

I am uneasy with much of what I read in this brochure and, unfortunately,
no telephone numbers or contact names are provided.  An e-mail address is
offered for those who have "any further questions about submitting a
proposal" and I am pursuing that.  However, my faculty researcher is
anxious for input and I thought ResAdm-L might be a good source of
information.

I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has had experience with this
program.   Thank you.

-------------------------------
Thomas O. Murphy
Director, Office of Grants & Sponsored Research
St. John's University, New York
Tele:  718-990-6236     Fax:  718-990-6020

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