Conflict of Interest
ISU Conflict of Interest Policy Statement
As a land-grant institution with a strong commitment to research and outreach, Iowa State University and its employees have traditionally interacted with government bodies, private companies, and individuals external to the institution. As interest grows in stimulating technology transfer and encouraging economic development, the number and types of external relationships will grow correspondingly. The complexity of Iowa State University's increasing interactions with non-university entities confronts faculty and staff members with a variety of issues and concerns. Central to these is ensuring that all parties to an agreement are fully aware of any personal or contractual relationships that might have relevance to or compete with a particular project.
- For a general discussion of conflict of interest principles go to the Executive Vice-President and Provost Conflict of Interest page.
Conflict of Interest: Business and Industry
Another type of conflict of Interest can occur if you begin discussing similar sponsored projects, including confidential information, with two or more companies about similar efforts. In this situation, it is likely that something will be learned from one company or project that would be of benefit to the other company. Because the companies are likely in competition with each other, this will most likely result in negative consequences for both the university and the companies.
