The document outlines effective practices implemented by U.S. research universities to address security threats and concerns over foreign influence in academia, based on a survey conducted in October 2018 with responses from 39 institutions. The survey aimed to inform policymakers, facilitate inter-institutional learning, aggregate current practices, and demonstrate institutional commitment to safeguarding research. Core practices include awareness campaigns through campus-wide communications, security briefings, and newsletters to build faculty and student understanding of foreign risks and reporting requirements. Many universities have established high-level working groups and specialized offices to coordinate compliance for international activities, export control, and risk mitigation.
Institutions have enhanced training programs by modifying Responsible Conduct of Research curricula to cover topics such as export controls, intellectual property protection, and the identification of suspicious behavior. Rigorous screening and review processes are applied to foreign gifts, grants, contracts, and visitors; this includes vetting mechanisms for international collaborations and regular use of software tools for restricted-party screening. Policies addressing conflicts of interest and commitment have been expanded to monitor faculty foreign affiliations and financial ties. Enhanced cybersecurity measures involve strengthened data handling, network security, and participation in national threat-sharing consortia. Additionally, institutions implement robust controls for intellectual property, employ Technology Control Plans, and support secure protocols for foreign travel. Collaboration with federal security agencies has been increased, with clear campus points of contact and participation in classified briefings. Export control compliance remains a high priority, supported by dedicated expert staff and national association membership. The document emphasizes the ongoing commitment of APLU and AAU to engage stakeholders, share best practices, and balance security imperatives with the preservation of academic openness and international collaboration.
