Research security - guidance and support
Our international engagement is academically driven, allowing collaborations to flourish; at the same time, we are facing a complex international environment and therefore new and changing potential risks.
While we encourage international partnerships and open research, we want our researchers and research-related PS staff to be risk aware, with access to processes to help minimise threats, and therefore empowered to make informed decisions.
This work goes across all areas of our University and is aligned with Universities UK and UK Government guidance. It includes our new Policy on Responsible International Research as well as the information and services listed below.
We are here to support you – to maintain your academic freedom, help you develop your international relationships safely and keep you and your work secure.
But it is also important for you to be clear on the security of your work. As well accessing the support below, ask 3 key questions:
Who’s funding your research?
What interests do they represent and do they conflict with our own?
What controls are in place – who owns the research, what can funders do with the research?
How well do you know your research partners?
Researchers should look into the background and connections of their research partners and be clear on:
- Whether they have any conflicts of interest with other research.
- Whether and how they represent or are connected with other organisations/countries.
How is your research being used?
Research may be applied in different ways that weren’t intended by the researcher.
It is important to think about how research results could be used and consider how to prevent partners or other people with access to research from doing this inappropriately.
Support and resources
Research Risk Profiler
Use this tool to help navigate a range potentially complex risk and compliance topics when planning a new project to ensure it can proceed safely and securely.
Travel and working abroad
Support and guidance on managing risk factors for colleagues working internationally and their managers.
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Academic Technology Approval Scheme
ATAS is a British Government scheme for certifying overseas students and researchers for entry into the UK to study or conduct research.
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Welcoming visitors
We are responsible for ensuring every visitor is properly entitled to work and participate in activities.
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Export Controls and NSI
We must comply with Government regulations when sharing and collaborating internationally. Our team will support you in this.
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Information Governance Office
Get support and guidance on data protection, freedom of information, records management, information risk and security and Information Systems.
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Data Management
Access support for managing your research output securely from the Library and IT Services teams.
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Responsible Collaboration
Some projects will require additional approval through our Research Relationship Oversight Group (RROG).
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UK Government guidance
The UK Government offers guidance and resources through the National Protective Security Authority’s Trusted Research campaign.
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