Abstract

Research security has emerged as a critical concern in the increasingly interconnected world of international research collaboration. Research managers may now find themselves responsible for leading discussions on how to safeguard research and assets within their institution from misuse and misappropriation, as well as compliance with growing regulation.

This presentation examines diverse global perspectives on safeguarding research integrity while maintaining open scientific exchange. Drawing upon our experience of working globally with colleagues in countries including Chile, Malaysia, South Africa, Brazil, Denmark, the US and Italy, we will draw upon a series of global case studies that demonstrate different approaches to both policy and practice.

The presentation will outline key research security challenges, including intellectual property theft, foreign interference, and dual-use technologies and why responsible internationalisation is vital to the sustainability of the sector. It will then explore factors including the rationale for change, national policy approaches and examples of good practice. Approaches will be illustrated through globally sourced case studies.

Central themes will include the need to balance competing priorities such as economic interests, equitable partnerships and open research practices. We will consider how geopolitical contexts and research cultures shape national and institutional responses to security concerns. We will also consider the potential unintended consequences of overly restrictive measures, such as impeding scientific progress, hindering economic growth and exacerbating global inequalities in research capacity.

We will highlight a series of considerations for developing nuanced approaches to research security and the need for international dialogue and cooperation to harmonise security practices while preserving the benefits of open science. By synthesising diverse global perspectives, we aim to inform more effective and equitable research security policies that protect innovation without compromising scientific collaboration. We also aim to encourage and facilitate greater collaboration between research managers globally on these issues.