Academic Collaboration
Are you thinking about launching an international academic collaboration—or formalizing an existing partnership?
If you and one or more international peers are collaborating academically (rather than engaging in a revenue-generating relationship), you have several options for structuring the partnership. Some collaborations may not require a formal written agreement. However, if you believe your work might need a legally binding agreement, please consult your unit’s designated contract administrator.
International Agreements
Academic units may partner with institutions of higher education or other organizations worldwide through a variety of agreements. Successful institutional partnerships often depend on long-term commitment from faculty and their international counterparts.
Below are common types of agreements that must be initiated through your unit’s contract administrator. Contract administrators have access to Cornell’s agreement templates and will ensure proper review by the Office of General Counsel and other relevant offices:
- Letters of intent or Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) supporting global initiatives and partnerships
- Memorandum of agreement (MOAs) supporting global initiatives and partnerships
- Joint centers or research agreements that are not part of a sponsored project or program
- Fee-based international academic services contracts that are not part of a sponsored project or gift
- Student and faculty exchange agreements
- Study abroad program provider or service provider agreements
- International dual degree and dual certificate program agreements
Please talk with your unit’s designated contract administrator if you are interested in exploring any of these types of agreements.
