Managing Conflicts of Interest

If it appears that the outside activity may create a conflict of interest, the activity may be prohibited entirely. In some cases, the activity may be permitted to a limited extent, subject to a management plan and/or subject to DOE review and approval. The following are examples of activities that may be prohibited, may be permitted subject to a management plan, or may require DOE review and approval:

• The outside activity is related to the employee’s Stanford/SLAC research (work for Stanford/SLAC must be separable from any work the outside entity may be doing).
• The outside entity is funding the employee’s Stanford/SLAC research.
• The outside entity is providing data, material, a device, or licensed technology for use in Stanford/SLAC research.
• The employee’s Stanford/SLAC work could benefit the outside entity.
• The employee is listed on a SLAC proposal involving the outside entity.
• Technology is being licensed to or from an entity in which the employee has an interest. Per the prime contract, prior to any assignment, exclusive licensing, or option for exclusive licensing of SLAC/DOE-funded intellectual property to conflicted individuals or entities, SLAC must evaluate such proposed assignment, license, or option, and DOE review and approval is required. In many such cases, a management plan will also be required, if the proposed assignment, license, or option is deemed permissible.
• The employee's Stanford/SLAC research/work could benefit or affect the outside entity or could be benefitted or affected by the outside entity. 
• The outside entity has a current or prospective business relationship with SLAC (e.g., an option or license, a provider of goods or services, or a sponsor of research).

Please email conflictsofinterest@slac.stanford.edu with any questions.