
This is an odd scneario I'm having a hard time getting my head around. Scenario: An external for profit company wants access to the expertise and resources of a University's core facility, however they need the work done on a specific instrument the core does not currently have. The company purchases the instrument and gives it to the core/university. The core then assumes operating costs and staffing needs for it. Core is free to roll excess capacity into their normal operation. Should the company get free access to that instrument until the original purchase cost is paid for, or should they get free access to that instrument forever? Does the scenario change if the company retains ownership of the instrument but keeps it on core property? --Matt