I have a BIG dilemma. I am a final year pharmacy student currently finishing off my thesis. Basically, I devised a methodology that is unique in my country and my study was the first of its kind here. Now, there is a 3rd year student who has an extremely similar title to mine, her thesis is basically a follow up of mine. She has asked me for help and basically wants me to explain the methodology to her. Now I am a VERY altruistic person but I feel it is unfair that I have devised a method and that she can just find it ready. I am willing to help her, all I want in return is recognition in any written material she publishes, both her main thesis and any articles she might publish after. How can I ensure that this happens? Would having her sign a form of disclaimer be legally binding or is that too far fetched?

Please help as this is making me really anxious.

Thanks in advance,
Sindagon

Hi, Just a few thoughts I had re your question. I am only a first year so might not be getting this right. I would discuss this with my supervisor and then hopefully he/she/they would ensure that they attend any meetings you have with this other student. Have you written any papers on this? If so I'm sure it would be a lot easier to ensure that she has to reference you. If you haven't written any papers perhaps I would do so now.

I am in the process of writing one and will submit it for publishing in about 2 weeks time. Thanks for your thoughts!

Hi.

I agree with post below, get it published.. conference would be quicker than journal, so if you can get a paper to one asap then i would do so.

Don't feel bad about wanting to protect your intellectual property.

Two other things that spring to mind.... Have you got the intellectual property from your university ? And/or are you able to go down a legal patent route ? Maybe something to think about.

All the best, and well done for devising a new method. Cool.

Chuff