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Academic-industry relationships in the life sciences. Extent, consequences, and management
1Health Policy Research and Development Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston 02114.
JAMA
|December 16, 1992
Summary
Academic-industry relationships in life sciences offer research funding and productivity gains but pose risks like secrecy. Promoting these partnerships requires careful oversight and full disclosure by faculty.
Area of Science:
- Life Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Medical Research
Background:
- Academic-industry relationships in life sciences are a subject of ongoing debate.
- These collaborations present both advantages and disadvantages for academic institutions and commercial entities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the benefits and risks associated with academic-industry relationships in the life sciences.
- To provide recommendations for managing these partnerships effectively.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing evidence on academic-industry collaborations.
- Analysis of reported benefits, including research support and enhanced productivity.
- Identification of risks such as increased academic secrecy and potential damage to public trust.
Main Results:
- Benefits include increased research funding, income for academic health centers, and enhanced educational experiences.
- Risks involve potential for secrecy in academic research and erosion of public confidence.
- The overall balance suggests that these relationships can be beneficial when managed properly.
Conclusions:
- Academic-industry relationships should be permitted and selectively encouraged.
- Enhanced vigilance and mandatory disclosure of all relationships by life science faculty are crucial.
- Particular attention is needed for arrangements involving human subjects to mitigate risks.
Keywords:
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