FAQs
Questions worth asking.
Straight answers on who does the work, what it costs and what happens if it isn’t right.
The people
Who does the work?
A Cambridge undergraduate or researcher who studies the subject your problem sits in. You’ll know who before anything starts.
How do you choose the student?
We match by subject and by the specific problem, confirm they are available, and review the work before it reaches you.
Can we keep working with them?
Yes. If it goes well, they can take on another project, and if you’d like something longer we can talk about it.
Price and timing
How much does it cost?
A fixed price per project, set in the Scope of Work once we understand the problem. It is agreed before anything starts, with no hourly billing.
What if the work doesn’t meet the brief?
We revise it at no cost. If it still doesn’t meet the brief, you don’t pay.
How fast can you start?
We scope it within 48 hours and start as soon as you agree. Most projects take about 10 working days, scheduled around the student’s term.
Data and ownership
Is the work confidential?
Yes. We sign your NDA on request, before you share anything non-public.
What data will you need?
Usually public sources or an anonymised sample you choose to share. We never ask for personal or patient data.
Who owns the work?
You do, on payment, including any code.
About Brieflab
What won’t you take on?
Lab or bench work, regulated advice (legal, clinical or financial sign-off) and anything needing personal data.
Are you part of the University of Cambridge?
No. Brieflab is an independent service. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the University.