The University reserves the right to publish the results of research. These clauses may be common in commercial environments, but are rare for states. The University can accept only contracts that are governed by the laws of Virginia. We are unable to perform due diligence analyses on intellectual properties. In addition, license agreements may include an initial, up front royalty payment to help us cover costs.
All research is somewhat speculative.
We find that confidentiality agreements are much fairer when they are mutual and based on the standard by which each party preserves its own information. Then you will be able to discuss confidential information with University employees, such as faculty or administrators. In this case, the University form must be signed by a University officer, usually the Assoc. V.P. of Research and Graduate Studies.