Research Security
International engagement is a key priority for the University of Memphis as we continue to expand our global impact. This page is intended to help University of Memphis researchers navigate new research security rules that accompany international collaboration.
Research security covers a wide range of federal initiatives meant to protect academic research from being misappropriated to the detriment of national security. These initiatives have been enumerated in National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33), subsequent guidance from the Office of Science and Technology Policy in 2022 and 2023, and the CHIPS and Science Act (also known as CHIPS). NSPM-33 and CHIPS require universities, including the University of Memphis, to take active measures to safeguard research. These initiatives have led to the creation of new rules and a closer review of international collaborations that may affect your work.
The CITI Program offers Research Security courses that provide knowledge and tools to protect against risks in the global ecosystem and undue foreign influence. These courses are relevant for faculty, institutional officlas, research administrators, and other personnel involved in research. Below are the available courses:
Research Security Training: This course covers risks and threats to the global research ecosystem, emphasizing concepts like research security, disclosure, risk management, and international collaboration.
Research Security Advanced Refresher: This is an eight-module video-based course that delves into foundational research security information and explores advanced topics. It begins with an introduction to research security and covers risk mitigation, cybersecurity, international collaborations, and more.
FAQs
Who should take the Research Security and Undue Foreign Influence courses?
The Research Security Training and Research Security Advanced Refresher courses are intended for key personnel, research administrators, and others who may be subject to federal research security training requirements. In addition, individuals within organizations, including compliance officers, who may work in areas where there may be concerns related to foreign collaboration, interference, or funding of activities may find these courses helpful.
The Undue Foreign Influence course is designed for individuals across institutional settings who may be involved in research and need to be familiar with how to appropriately engage internationally. This course has been designed to provide information to faculty, students (particularly graduate students), and others on this critical topic.
What are the benefits of the Research Security and Undue Foreign Influence courses?
Learners who take these courses will gain a deeper understanding of how to protect against risks to the global research ecosystem and undue foreign influence.
How long will each course take to complete?
The Research Security Training course consists of four modules. Each module is designed to take about 60 minutes to complete. The Research Security Advanced Refresher course consists of eight modules. Each module is designed to take about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. The Undue Foreign Influence course consists of four modules. Each module is designed to take about 25 to 30 minutes to complete.
The Office of Research Compliance tracks new research security regulations and can help you figure out how they apply to your work. Send questions to: researchcompliance@memphis.edu