Why is a MTA important?

MTAs are important because they define the parameters under which material may be used. MTAs include terms related to reason and length of time for use, confidentiality of material, publication of results, ownership of intellectual property, and warranty and liability. Unfavorable terms are removed through negotiation between GCA and the Provider. MTAs protect both the Researcher's and Yale's interests and the ability to conduct future research related to the material. It is important, especially for material received from industry, to ensure that the Provider does not include terms that may restrict the Researcher's academic freedom, assert undue rights of ownership of discoveries, or use indemnification language that may put the University at risk. For information on Yale's policy regarding terms in incoming MTAs, (See: http://www.yale.edu/ocr/pfg/policies/mta_in.html)