This study examined the relationship between organizational form and faculty behavior for biotechnology faculty in research universities. In particular the study looked at the perceptions and role of nondepartmental organized research units as compared to the more traditional university structures of discipline rank, tenure status,and institutional prestige. The population for the study consisted of three research universities with biotechnology programs focused on regional economic development. Fifty-eight academic administrators and faculty members in biotechnology and related disciplines were interviewed. Analysis of the data found that, although formal research structure influenced faculty behavior, professors in research universities cared most about the values and norms of their academic discipline and their standing in the profession overall. Faculty members in research universities appeared to possess scarce skills and knowledge and have substantial control over their time. Faculty reward structure in these institutions was dependent on external peer review and participation in professional societies. Thus the effect of any mechanism for organizing faculty research depends on how well the structure matches the values and norms of faculty culture. The effect of any such structure also depends on local circumstances, the environment, and the goals of the institution. (Includes 22 references.) (JB)