Ownership is often defined by the primary funding source of the project. In all cases, but especially when collaborating, it is recommended that ownership is established at the start of a project. Data management plans, increasingly required by funders and strongly recommended by the University, provide an opportunity to establish clear roles and responsibilities.
It is the responsibility of the PI or the researcher to determine what data are appropriate to share under this policy. In all cases, but especially when collaborating, it is recommended that roles and responsibilities are established at the start of a project so that rights and obligations are clear.
The policy shall be consulted regarding research data ownership and sharing in the first instance. In the event disagreements about ownership among collaborators, the Office of the Provost will become involved and attempt to resolve the dispute.
With respect to research materials, a Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) between Yale and other institutions or companies is needed in cases involving the exchange, sharing, or transfer of such materials.