Research Security Program Components

University research security programs are now mandatory for Texas institutions, ensuring that research data and intellectual property are protected from misuse and foreign interference. These programs address cybersecurity, foreign travel security, research security training, and export control training, with the goal of safeguarding national security and the integrity of the research ecosystem.  

As a Texas university receiving over $50 million in federal funding, the University is required to implement a research security training program for all “covered individuals,” including principal investigators, co-principal investigators, and key personnel listed on a proposal or award.  

In addition to the required annual Cybersecurity training, all Texas State researchers are required to complete training on the topics of Research Security and Undue Foreign Influence.  Researchers who work with export controlled technologies or controlled unclassified information (CUI) are required to complete export control training. 

Expand FAQ List

  • Faculty, staff and students traveling for University purposes (regardless of the funding source) must receive prior approval from the President or President's delegate. Travel requests must be submitted 10 days prior to departure. This includes travel for international research, conferences, and internships. 

    NSPM-33 and S.B. No. 1565 (Texas) require Texas institutions to establish research security programs that include measures related to the security of international travel. In addition, GA-48 prohibits researchers from traveling to destinations for professional purposes listed in 15 CFR 791.4.  

    These destinations include: China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Venezuela. 

  • NSPM-33 and the CHIPS and Science Act directs institutional research security programs to comply with certain cybersecurity standards. Cybersecurity is an expansive and complex area and its scope extends well beyond research.  Cybersecurity training is required annually. 

    For purposes of research security, the following resources are helpful starting points:  

     

  • Texas State’s Export Control Program maintains responsibility for establishing, implementing, and enforcing University-wide export compliance policies, procedures, and guidelines designed to meet or exceed the requirements of the various federal laws governing the export of goods, technology, and information, including compliance with ITAR, EAR, and OFAC regulations.  Increased international collaboration and engagement also require heightened awareness of the laws and regulations related to the transfer of information, commodities, technology, and software to foreign nationals, foreign entities or foreign countries. While the majority of research at Texas State falls under the fundamental research exclusion, researchers must be aware of the limits of that exclusion and any restrictions outlined in their awards that may negate or qualify that exclusion. 

  • Texas State prescribes to the Collaborative Institutional Training Institute (CITI) to administer the required training. Follow the instruction guide for adding the additional modules to your training curriculum. Contact RIC if you are unable to add the courses and we will add it for you. The courses take approximately 30 minutes to complete.  

    See the training requirements page for more information.