We aim to collaborate with researchers in the field of microbial products R & D who are newly embarking on this research path or are seeking an independent assessment of ongoing programs. (This may be particularly beneficial for companies needing scientific expertise to meet key deadlines/milestones for the next round of funding.) We will tailor the consulting arrangement with our clients to best suit their individual requirements. Our services may be engaged via a range of flexible options that include: one to several-day consultation visits that may include presentations and formal reports, project-based collaborations of variable duration and intensity and, longer-term commitments with specified annual requirements. In certain cases, a prolonged site visit with hands-on work in the laboratory may be desirable in order to directly observe and monitor the progress of the program. This arrangement may be particularly productive for the isolation and fermentation of microorganisms. In these instances we would negotiate a long-term contract with daily fees greatly reduced over the shorter duration programs.