What do I do if I have an MOU for review?
MOUs, which also may be referred to as “letters of intent,” are an aspirational statement of intentions, and are not legally binding agreements. Nevertheless, all MOUs must be reviewed by the OLC for legal form, content and consistency with Laboratory policies. In most instances, MOUs must be approved by your Division Director and the Laboratory Directorate (through the Laboratory Director’s Chief of Staff) before being sent to the Office of Laboratory Counsel for review.
Before submitting an MOU to the OLC for review, we ask that it be prepared in accordance with the practice tips noted in the Office of Laboratory Counsel Helpful Guide: Memoranda of Understanding. If the MOU is with a foreign entity, a more involved approval process is necessary which is outlined in the MOU Helpful Guide. In performing the legal review, if there are intellectual property issues raised in the MOU, the OLC will coordinate those issues with Innovations and Partnerships Office.
Who can sign an MOU?
The Laboratory Director, or his or her designee, signs MOUs. However, the OLC, in consultation with the Directorate, may decide that it is appropriate for someone else sign.
Who retains the final version of an MOU?
The Office of Laboratory Counsel is the office of record for all MOUs. The original, completely executed MOU should be sent to the OLC for retention.
Where can I find an MOU template?
Please review this guide, which can also be located on our Resources for Employees page.
For nonbinding internal MOU guidance and templates, see the PMO’s MOU Project Management Guidance.
What do I do if I have an agreement for review that is not an MOU?
Please visit our Other Agreements page.
