Inter-institutional Collaborations

There are many sound reasons for initiating an inter-institutional collaboration, such as additional or complementary scientific expertise, knowledge, labor, technical capabilities, and financial resources. This is why multi-institutional projects have gained increasing popularity in recent years. For some studies, these collaborations may be initiated and terminated rather spontaneously and without significant repercussions. However, when animal subjects are involved, numerous implications, caveats, and consequences must be considered, not only to cultivate favorable outcomes but also to avoid subsequent problems, including animal welfare and regulatory issues. This chapter defines and describes inter-institutional collaborations, which parties could be involved, how partnerships are created, what details need to be considered, and why a written mutual agreement of understanding (or equivalent document) is important. Regulatory implications, roles and responsibilities, animal ownership, sourcing, and financial aspects are also discussed. While success is always anticipated, this chapter also clarifies legal and animal welfare considerations in cases when collaborations must be terminated prematurely.