Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
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An NDA protects confidential information shared between Auburn University and an outside entity during discussions or collaborations. It ensures that proprietary business information is not disclosed or used for unauthorized purposes. NDAs require both parties to safeguard confidential information with reasonable care for a designated amount of time.
Template: Click this link for NDA template
Material Transfer Agreements (MTA)
- An MTA governs the transfer of physical research materials between Auburn University and an outside entity. It defines how the materials can be used, restricts commercial use, and outlines obligations regarding inventions and publications. MTAs apply to both incoming transfers (materials received by Auburn) and outgoing transfers (materials sent from Auburn).
Template: Click this link for the Outgoing MTA template
Template: Click this link for the Incoming MTA template
- Auburn University is a signatory to the Uniform Biological Material Transfer Agreement (UBMTA)
Click this link for the UBMTA Implementing Letter Word document
Data Use Agreement (DUA)
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A DUA regulates the sharing and use of research data, ensuring compliance with privacy laws and institutional policies. It defines the scope of data use, safeguards data confidentiality, and clarifies publication and disposal requirements.
Template: Click this link for the DUA template
How to Submit Agreements via Endeavor
- Access Endeavor
- Go to https://endeavor.auburn.edu/ and log in with your AU Access credentials
- Create a New Agreement
- Option 1: Click the “Create” dropdown, then select “Agreement.”
- Option 2: Click the “Agreements” tab, then “Create Agreement.”
- Fill out the required information and click "Continue."
- Submit for Review
- After completing the agreement details, click the “Submit” button on the left-hand side.
- Need Help?
- Refer to this step-by-step guide: Click this link for the step-by-step guide
- Contact the Agreements Team for assistance with any questions
Departmental Reviews for IPX Agreements
When you submit an agreement through Endeavor, your NDA, MTA, or DUA may require review by one or more compliance offices. Reviews depend on the type of agreement and the materials or data involved. Below is an overview of potential reviews for each agreement type:
| Compliance Office | NDA | MTA | DUA |
| Office of International Programs (OIP) For international agreements or agreements with foreign parties |
X | X | X |
| Research Security Compliance If there is export control language or security-sensitive data |
X | X | X |
| Animal Resources Compliance (IACUC) If materials or data involve animals or animal-derived substances; may require a protocol number. |
X | X | |
| Institutional Biosafety Committee If materials include biological hazards or hazardous substances |
X | ||
| Environmental Health, Safety, and Risk If materials are hazardous or regulated. |
X | ||
| Human Research Protection Program (IRB) If materials or data involve humans or human-derived substances; may require a protocol number. |
X | X |
Important Notes:
- The IPX team will route your agreement to the appropriate compliance offices based on your submission details.
- Be prepared to provide supporting documents (e.g., protocols, consent forms, data protection plans) referenced in your agreement.
- All reviews are managed through Endeavor, and you will be notified if additional information is needed.
*All research related agreements, license agreements, MTAs, NDAs, as well as option, teaming, STTR and other related intellectual property agreements must have the signature of an authorized signatory of the University or the Vice President for Research and Economic Development. Only authorized signatures can legally bind the University to the aforementioned agreements.
For questions or assistance, contact the IPX office at Auburn University.
