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Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreements
Sponsored research activities may require access to information that is proprietary or otherwise considered by the sponsor to be privileged and confidential. Such information must be specifically identified by the sponsor and must be determined to be confidential within the definitions of the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. If these criteria are met, such information may be received and maintained under a promise of confidentiality for a prescribed period of time.
Maintaining the confidentiality of such information is primarily the responsibility of the Project Director. However, faculty and staff with access to the confidential information undertake this responsibility as part of their employment agreement. The University Policy on the Integrity of Scholarship contains further guidelines regarding acceptance and use of confidential information.
Sponsors usually require formal agreements prior to the exchange of confidential information (nondisclosure or secrecy agreements). Such agreements which involve University personnel, acting within the scope of their employment, must be signed by an authorized University official.
Requests for nondisclosure agreements should be directed to the DRDA Project Representative who has liaison responsibilities for the sponsor category. The Project Representative will review the request and obtain the appropriate signatures. Failure to comply with designated procedures may make the confidential information subject to disclosure under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act.