As the Center Director (or designated deputy) you have recently been presented with a project plan in which an Investigator is considering working collaboratively with a medical supply firm. You want to support the Investigator.

After you review the alternatives with the Transfer Officer, you concur. You review the Cooperative R & D Agreement that has been drawn up. You may modify the specifics a bit to head off possible misunderstandings later on.

You then work with the Transfer Officer to secure final VA approval. You periodically monitor the arrangement and the flow of information about the project to ensure consistency with the agreement.

Throughout the project and as the time for product transfer approaches, you ensure that the rights of the Investigator and the VA are protected and their efforts are publicized and rewarded if appropriate.