UK government guidance

The UK Government expects universities to keep their research secure and be up to date with their security processes and requirements. It supports the HE sector with a range of guidance and support specific to academia through the National Security and Investment Act (NSI), Export Controls and Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS).

The National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and its Trusted Research campaign provide further guidance, information and mitigation for researchers and research-related colleagues. The NPSA resources can be accessed by clicking on the box below.

In addition, the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS), which came into force on 1 July 2025, requires organisations and individuals to register any activities sponsored by a foreign state or certain state-controlled organisations. Guidance and support can be found on this hub on the box below.

National Security and Investment Act (NSI)

• NSI: details of the 17 types of notifiable acquisitions
• NSI: guidance for the higher education and research-intensive sectors

Exports Control

• Export controls applying to academic research
• Consolidated list of strategic military and dual-use items that require export authorisation

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and Trusted Research information, guidance and mitigation advice for researchers and research-related colleagues. 

Information, guidance and support in relation to the UK government scheme to register activities sponsored by a foreign state or certain state-controlled organisations.