If your project proposal includes partnering with American Indian tribes and nations, we recommend that you contact The Native Peoples Technical Assistance Office (NPTAO). NPTAO serves as the liaison for Native Affairs to Research, Discovery & Innovation (RDI).
NPTAO has worked with many Native nations across the state of Arizona to obtain copies of the most up-to-date policies and protocols that control research and engagement processes and outline procedures for conducting research on sovereign Native land and created an array of web-based research/engagement resources, including providing research support and capacity building, training and education in Indigenous law and governance for Native peoples, and technical assistance for university faculty, staff, and students seeking to engage with Native nations.
In NPTAO’s website you will find valuable resources such The Tribal Consultation Policy which describes fundamental principles of tribal sovereignty, consultation, and respect and the University of Arizona Guidelines For Research and Institutional Engagement with Native Nations which describes how to conduct appropriate research by the students, administrators, faculty, and staff from the University of Arizona. More detailed information about tribal sovereignty, tribal consultation requirements, and informed consent here.
The University of Arizona Native Nations Institute and The Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development at Harvard University have curated a selection of resources including activities, tools, and how-tos for people interested in working with tribal communities. The Nation Building toolboxes include resources for teachers and helpful links.