Cooperative research and development agreement

Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA)

A Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) is a legal agreement between a federal laboratory and a non-federal entity, such as a private company, university, or other organization, to collaborate on research and development (R&D) projects. CRADAs are designed to facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise between the public and private sectors, fostering innovation and commercialization of new technologies.

Purpose and Benefits

The primary purpose of a CRADA is to leverage the unique capabilities and resources of federal laboratories to advance scientific research and technological development. By partnering with non-federal entities, federal laboratories can:

• Access additional expertise, funding, and resources.
• Accelerate the development and commercialization of new technologies.
• Enhance the impact of federal research investments.
• Foster innovation and economic growth.

For non-federal partners, CRADAs offer the opportunity to:

• Collaborate with leading scientists and researchers.
• Gain access to specialized facilities and equipment.
• Share in the intellectual property (IP) generated from the collaboration.
• Reduce the time and cost associated with R&D.

Key Features

CRADAs are characterized by several key features:

• Flexibility: CRADAs can be tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of the collaborating parties.
• Intellectual Property Rights: The agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities related to IP, including ownership, licensing, and commercialization.
• Cost Sharing: While federal laboratories provide in-kind contributions such as personnel, facilities, and equipment, non-federal partners may contribute funding, personnel, or other resources.
• Confidentiality: CRADAs include provisions to protect confidential information exchanged during the collaboration.

Legal Framework

CRADAs are authorized under the Federal Technology Transfer Act of 1986, which amended the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980. This legislation provides the legal framework for federal laboratories to enter into CRADAs and outlines the roles and responsibilities of the parties involved.

Process

The process of establishing a CRADA typically involves the following steps:

1. Identification of Collaboration Opportunities: Federal laboratories and potential partners identify areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration. 2. Proposal Development: The parties develop a detailed proposal outlining the scope, objectives, and resources required for the project. 3. Negotiation and Agreement: The terms of the CRADA, including IP rights, cost sharing, and confidentiality, are negotiated and formalized in a written agreement. 4. Implementation: The parties execute the research and development activities as outlined in the CRADA. 5. Evaluation and Reporting: The progress and outcomes of the collaboration are monitored and reported to ensure compliance with the agreement.

Also see

• Federal Technology Transfer Act of 1986
• Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980
• Intellectual Property
• Research and Development
• Technology Transfer