Take an Investigator's Scientific Question Intake
Capture a researcher's early scientific question clearly while avoiding a commitment about study support or protocol direction.
An investigator may arrive with a promising research idea before they have a protocol or a complete question. The medical science liaison can listen, clarify the research interest, and explain the approved inquiry path. The liaison should not evaluate the protocol as a sponsor, direct the research design, or imply that funding or support will follow.
Ask what scientific gap the researcher wants to explore, what evidence they have reviewed, and whether they want to understand the formal submission process. Capture the question accurately in the researcher’s terms. Do not promise a review result, suggest that an early idea will be accepted, or use the conversation to promote a product.
In a fictional meeting, a researcher says, “If I write this protocol, will your company fund it?” The liaison says, “I cannot predict a funding or review decision. I can explain the approved process for an independent research inquiry and make sure your scientific question is captured accurately. What hypothesis are you exploring, and what materials would help you understand the submission requirements?” The researcher asks for the process information and takes time to refine the question.
Practice this intake with a colleague who repeatedly seeks a commitment. Evaluate whether the liaison stays curious about the scientific rationale, distinguishes process from outcome, and offers the correct next resource. The notes should record the general research topic and information requested, without characterizing the idea as endorsed or approved.
Practice these next
Prepare for a scientific advisory conversation with a clear scope and balanced evidence plan.
Provide dated references for a committee discussion without directing a protocol change.
Clarify a medical director’s request and coordinate balanced materials before a committee meeting.
Clarify an early study idea and explain the submission path without promising support or funding.
Clarify a literature question and provide an appropriate scientific information route without selectively building a clinical argument.
Clarify the scientific question, intended use, and evidence scope before arranging follow-up.