Non-Indigenous peoples have been conducting research involving Indigenous peoples and communities for their own gain for generations. In recent years there has been a welcome shift in the role of researchers in Indigenous communities, and today there is an expectation that research be conducted in meaningful partnership. This includes direct involvement of Indigenous peoples and communities, full sharing of information, and other benefits on the Indigenous side, in keeping with OCAP principles.

Many modern treaties have relationships with universities and researchers. The goal in such relationships is to ensure that modern treaties set the research agenda and are engaged in activities that yield benefits to both the researcher and the community.

Modern treaties play a role in approving and licensing research, as well as setting research priorities and enabling research opportunities. This contributes to the knowledge and research economy, a sector that employs instructors, students, translators, and various other positions, and contributes to the development and communication of new knowledge and ideas. These ventures bring funds and a wide range of employment opportunities to the region.