Why might researchers discuss intellectual property matters early in a collaboration?

Researchers discuss intellectual property matters early in a collaboration to avoid disputes later on because intellectual property (IP) rights can be a contentious issue if not clearly defined from the outset. By addressing IP concerns early, researchers can establish clear expectations and agreements about who owns the data, findings, and any inventions resulting from the collaboration. This proactive approach helps to prevent misunderstandings or conflicts that could arise if one party feels entitled to rights over work that they did not contribute to or that was not initially agreed upon. By clarifying these issues at the beginning, collaborators can foster a smoother working relationship and allow the research to proceed more efficiently without the distraction of potential IP disputes.