A microcomputer-controlled system for instrument processing and billing for complex analytical instruments funded by multiple sources in the University of California at Berkeley's College of Chemistry is described and its potential applications in other administrative situations are outlined. (MSE)

A survey of 99 pharmaceutical companies concerning their organization and use of project management techniques for research and development found that the industry is using project management increasingly in a variety of ways for better business planning and operations. (MSE)

Concern for the state of the humanities is a choice, not a necessity, for research administrators, but by fostering the humanities in any way, research administrators can nurture a vital tradition and a resource that contributes to the institution's basic purposes. (Author/MSE)

The administrative functions providing non-technical services to the technical research staff are often seen by researchers as antagonists, but they can enhance the research effort if organized and run correctly. To be effective, the services should be designed to enhance and not destroy creativity. (MSE)

The appropriate relationship and interaction between technical staff, specifically scientists and engineers in research and development, and the administrative support staff, both generally and in key support units, are discussed. Suggestions for time saving include dealing directly with purchasing, facilities, employee relations, office support,…

Principles for developing successful university-industry partnerships offered: (1) recognize each others goals; (2) match the capabilities interests, and facilities of the institutions with the people involved; (3) develop trust among the individuals; and (4) recognize administrative differences. (MSE)

University research results often lead to patentable inventions with significant possibilities for ethical conflict. University officials must be conscious of these conflicts, examine each situation carefully, and determine actions creating the greatest good for the greatest number. (Author/MSE)

The history of Canada's second largest engineering school's system of research administration is outlined, and the areas of general concern for research administrators seen in the near future are examined. (MSE)

Converting research facility costs from indirect to direct costs is used as an illustrative example of the problems of making changes in research program costing policy. (MSE)

For short- and long-term individual and institutional survival, the university and its research administrators must preserve and enhance the institution's climate for the pursuit of faculty scholarship, and faculties must keep research productivity and scholarly activity high.(MSE)

In response to criticism of the rise in indirect cost rates and their effect on federally funded research, the methods for calculating and applying indirect costs rates according to the new cost principles applicable to sponsored agreements are examined, and specific criticisms are addressed. (MSE)

An approach to developing external sources of funds for teaching, research, and public service uses institutional resources to encourage the activities of entrepreneurs within the institution. The concerns, considerations, and benefits are outlined. (MSE)

Research administrators can avoid falling into bureaucratic traps by (1) understanding what is important and what is subordinate to it; (2) becoming a better manager; and (3) improving public relations by being more accessible, soliciting complaints, consulting, supporting clients, making the rules work for clients, and educating clients.

The use of quantitative techniques for research and development management in large U.S. industrial firms is reviewed, current patterns of technique familiarity and usage are described, and suggestions for the direction of project management systems are given. (MSE)

Interviews with faculty on decisions to submit proposals for external funding suggest that activity at the current institution is related to previous experience, and more experience in graduate school may have a strong, positive effect on later activity. (Author/MSE)