A confidentiality agreement (sometimes called a 'non-disclosure agreement') is a legal contract in which the signatory agrees to not disclose information covered by the agreement. In academic research confidentiality agreements are frequently used between researchers and members of their research team (e.g. translators, transcribers, student employees) who may be privy to confidential and/or sensitive information as part of their role in a research project. 

The sample template shown below  (Template 1), and two others, are available to download by clicking the links on the right. 

 

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Sample Confidentiality Agreement

You have been hired to [Insert task] for [Insert Researcher name(s)], on the research project [Insert Title]. The ethical guidelines of this study require that you read and sign this form, signifying that you are willing to enter into a confidentiality agreement with respect to the data collected in this study.

The audio recordings you will receive will likely contain identifying markers of the participants as well as names of third parties (for instance colleagues, family members and/or acquaintances of participants). In order to protect confidentiality, you are to remove all identifiers of third parties and of participants who wish to remain anonymous. If transcription occurs outside the university, you will ensure that all records, transcripts and recordings are kept confidential (i.e., materials are never left unattended and are secured when not being used). By signing below, you agree not to reveal any information about what is contained on the audio recordings or in the written transcripts. Furthermore, you agree not to discuss anything regarding the participants or the data collected in this study with anyone other than the principal investigators.

By signing below you are indicating that you have read and understand the above agreement and that you will follow all of the specified conditions.

Name: ________________________________________________

Contact Telephone: ______________________________________

Contact E-mail: _________________________________________

Signature: ______________________________________________

Date: __________________________________________________