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Sponsored research is research that is funded by an external organization (“Sponsor”), such as a government agency, private foundation, corporation, or nonprofit, under a formal written agreement, and carried out to meet the Sponsor’s specified objectives.

Key Features

  • External funding source: The Sponsor provides funding, materials, or other support.
  • Formal agreement: A contract or grant that outlines the scope of work, budget, period of performance, and compliance requirements.
  • Defined objectives: The research must follow the Sponsor’s specified deliverables or reporting obligations and guidelines.
  • Institutional oversight: UNT ensures that all externally funded research is conducted in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and ethical standards.
1. Scope of Work (SOW)

A detailed description of the research to be conducted: outlines, objectives, methodology, deliverables, and timelines.

2. Budget and Payment

Specifies the total cost of the project, including direct and indirect costs.

Includes payment terms, invoicing schedules, and allowing expenses.

3. Period of Performance

Defines the start and end dates of the project.

4. Intellectual Property (IP)

Addresses ownership and rights to inventions, data, and other outcomes.

5. Publication Rights

Ensures the researcher's ability to publish results while balancing Sponsor confidentiality or review rights. 

6. Confidentiality

Protects sensitive information shared during the project.

7. Compliance and Regulation Requirements

Includes adherence to applicable federal, state, and institutional policies (e.g., IRB, IACUC,  export controls, conflict of interest, or responsible conduct of research).

8. Reporting Requirements

Specifies technical and financial reporting obligations. 

May include interim and final reports, milestones, or progress updates.

9. Termination and Modification

Outlines conditions under which the agreement can be modified or terminated.

Includes notice periods and responsibilities upon termination.

10. Standard Provisions
Covers indemnification, liability, governing law, and dispute resolution.

 

For Contracting-Related Questions

Please reach out to ResearchContracts@unt.edu