- Request Review: For new OPAs or updates to existing engagements, you are expected to review details with your supervisor, DLCI head, Dean’s Office, and/or COIC office before starting the engagement. This is especially important for example, if the engagement is with a foreign entity, involves potential sharing of restricted or sensitive information or you are unfamiliar with the organization or its mission. Using the consulting questionnaire to submit details for a proactive review will be a useful first step.
- Submit Details: Complete the COI consulting questionnaire with sufficient details for review by the DLCI head and/or your direct supervisor, grad officer or other appropriate administrator. The questionnaire provides guidance on how to complete and submit.
- Attach Rider: Once approved, attach the consulting rider to your OPA agreement. This is not required by MIT but is strongly encouraged as it is protective of you and your Institutional Responsibilities.
- Disclosure: Disclose your OPA details in MyCOI-OPA+ (or as instructed by your supervisor) within 30 days of starting a new engagement or renewing an existing one.
- Annual Update: If you have no new OPAs to report in a year, you will be prompted by the system to review and certify existing details one year from the date you last submitted or updated your disclosure. Please note that you should review and disclose new engagements as they arise throughout the year (within 30 days of engaging with a new entity).
- Federal Positions: If you hold a position at a federal sponsor (e.g., NIH, NSF, DARPA) related directly to project selection or funding decisions which solely impact MIT, please disclose in MyCOI-OPA+. This helps MIT identify and manage potential organizational and institutional conflicts of interest.
Updated August 2025