The document presents a detailed examination of the increasing institutional costs and administrative burdens associated with compliance in research settings, focusing on research security requirements as driven by new federal mandates. Data from COGR surveys and institutional case studies, such as those from the University of California, Irvine and Duke University, illustrate the evolving landscape: institutions are having to expand personnel, restructure administrative units, and invest heavily in areas like information technology, research compliance, and international travel oversight. Organizational shifts have been notable, with a substantial increase in full-time staff dedicated to compliance and risk mitigation activities, and heightened prioritization of research security within senior leadership’s agendas. The change also reflects growing awareness of associated risks and the need for policy development, process standardization, and improved integration between units responsible for conflict of interest, export control, and international collaboration.
The burden of compliance is acutely felt at both the institutional and individual researcher level. Faculty now face greater time and effort diverted from research into administrative duties, particularly regarding disclosures, training, effort certification, and tracking of research activities and collaborations, especially internationally. There is concern that regulations, while enhancing transparency and security, might stifle international cooperation, increase operational costs, and deter future researchers. The document underscores calls for systematic assessment and streamlining of processes, better support and technological solutions, and the need to balance risk mitigation with research productivity. Ongoing COGR surveys aim to quantify the true costs and impacts of compliance—data which will be used to advocate for policy adjustments to maintain a robust and innovative research enterprise without unduly hampering institutions or discouraging talented researchers.
