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.
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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
One pager for advocacy focused on securing scientific research against foreign threats.
AAU Statement on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Hearing "Examining Federal Science Agency Actions to Secure the U.S. Science and Technology Enterprise."
This resource document identifies key terms; effective practices proposed by institutions and government and non-government entities; links to various government and non-government entity lists, and topical analysis and proposed policy recommendations in several key areas..
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The Association of American Universities (AAU), American Council on Education (ACE), Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU), and the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) submitted a joint statement for the record to the Senate Judiciary Committee ahead of the subcommittee hearing on "Student Visa Integrity: Protecting Educational Opportunity and National Security."
AAU, along with 14 other higher education associations, wrote to FBI Director Chris Wray to request a meeting with relevant federal agencies to discuss national security issues that intersect with higher education.
Higher Education Association Statement on Foreign Plots Targeting America's Research and Development
The House Subcommittees on Oversight and Research and Technology of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology held an April 11 hearing titled, “Scholars or Spies: Foreign Plots Targeting America’s Research and Development.” The hearing explored the exploitation of research and development activities at academic institutions by foreign nations.
The Association of American Universities and the Council on Governmental Relations submit letter expressing concerns regarding DFARS 7000 language on fundamental research.
Associations Comment on Compliance Requirements for Safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information
Associations are concerned about the the compliance requirements for protecting CUI in non-Federal information systems.
