Research Security

The University of Florida values and encourages international research, collaboration, and scholarship. It is through our scholarly relationships—both domestic and international—that our faculty, staff, and students continue to generate innovations and discoveries that leave lasting impacts around the globe. The University is equally committed to adhering to regulatory requirements to protect public investment in research.

What is Research Security?

Research Security means “safeguarding the research enterprise against the misappropriation of research and development to the detriment of national or economic security, related violations of research integrity, and foreign government interference” (NSPM-33); or in other words, “protecting the means, know-how, and products of research until they are ready to be shared” (JASON Research Program on Research Security).

There are growing national security concerns regarding research involving sensitive data, intellectual property, or export-controlled information. Researchers are expected to take reasonable precautions to protect themselves and their work when traveling internationally, as well as fully disclose agreements and activities with foreign institutions to UF and U.S. federal sponsors. Failure to disclose foreign relationships and activities may jeopardize eligibility for future funding.

Research Security at UF

The federal government requires that research institutions receiving federal funds establish and operate a research security program to protect against foreign government interference and exploitation (NSPM-33). Research institutions continue to clarify what final requirements and procedures will be.  

UF Research Integrity, Security and Compliance (UF RISC) is the central point of contact within UF’s core offices to provide guidance to UF faculty, staff, and students who are conducting international research or other sponsored work abroad. The components of the program are:

• International Engagement and Collaborations
  Guidance on international projects, international scholars visits, and disclosure of activities to federal partners.
• Export Controls
  Training, international travel, and governing regulations.

Regulatory Background

• NSPM-33

• Chips and Science Act of 2022

• JASON “Research Program on Research Security”

• OSTP Guidelines for Research Security Programs at Covered Institutions