America's leading research universities guard our nation's security by protecting knowledge, trade secrets, and classified information from foreign interference. In fact, AAU members have a vested interest in making sure this is the case. AAU works closely with its members and the government to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place at all times. Our members also work hard to strike a balance between two key priorities. One, that research must remain open to succeed. The integrity of our nation's research depends on it. On the other hand, some sensitive data must also be protected. AAU and APLU have jointly written a guide to help our members deal with this issue. The guide provides principles and values that steer our actions and helps universities limit risks.
Body
As lawmakers consider measures related to securing federally funded research data and intellectual property, it is important to understand the current state of play for research security in the country to avoid new requirements that are duplicative, unnecessary, or counterproductive
Summary of relevant research security provisions in the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act.
AAU joined APLU and COGR in submitting comments to the National Science Foundation on the final version of the common disclosure forms for use in submission of research applications.
The resource list includes links to key terms, documents, and background materials relating to science and security issues.
Search Our Key Issues Library
Browse recent items or search for a specific topic or document.
AAU submits comments to provide input in response to the “Dear Colleague” Letter issued by NSF on May 4, 2023 regarding the development of the U.S. Research Security and Integrity Information Sharing Analysis Organization; NSF 23-098.
AAU, ACE, and 12 other organizations in the higher education community submitted comments to to the National Science Foundation (NSF) regarding the Proposed Implementation of Proposal and Award Policies & Procedures (PAPPG) Chapter VII.D.3 "Foreign Gifts and Contracts Disclosure."
AAU, ACE, and 20 other higher education associations submit Section 117 final ICR comments. The comment letter outlines the Department's burdensome reporting methods and continued extension of its statutory authority.
AAU has submitted comments in response to OSTP’s request for information on the draft NSPM-33 Research Security Programs Standard Requirement. The comments address overarching concerns including accounting for a risk-based approach and requesting clarity on the four program requirements: foreign travel security, research security training, cybersecurity, and export controls training.
