Sample interview questions: Can you describe a situation where you had to mediate a dispute over the ownership or access rights of research materials among multiple collaborators?
Sample answer:
During my tenure as a Research Librarian at [University Name], I encountered a complex dispute involving the ownership and access rights of valuable research materials.
Multiple collaborators, including professors, doctoral students, and external researchers, were involved in a longitudinal study that had generated a substantial collection of data, manuscripts, and experimental materials. As the custodians of these materials, the library was tasked with resolving the dispute.
To facilitate a mutually acceptable solution, I initiated a series of meetings with the affected parties. I actively listened to each side’s perspectives, carefully considering their legal, ethical, and reputational concerns. I also consulted with legal counsel and the university’s research integrity office to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
Through collaborative negotiation, I helped the parties develop a comprehensive access and ownership agreement that outlined:
- Clear definitions of ownership and usage rights for each type of material
- A structured process for requesting and granting access to materials
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/18_0_17/Research%20Librarian