Research Security

Research may be exposed to unauthorized access, misuse, or undue foreign interference, sometimes without researchers even realizing it. Hasselt University helps you to navigate research security in your work, from understanding the risks to obtaining formal advice when needed. 

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Why research security matters Research security @ UHasselt Tips and tricks for researchers FAQ on the FWO research security tab Research security contact point

Why research security matters

In an increasingly interconnected world, international collaboration drives scientific progress, but also brings risks. Governments and institutions across Europe, including FWO, have responded with guidelines and set expectations to safeguard research. Researchers are increasingly expected to reflect on how knowledge is shared, who has access to it, and how it might be misused.  

Maintaining research security helps prevent risks such as:

  • Unwanted knowledge transfer: espionage, patent violations, or unauthorized access to sensitive technology;
  • (Foreign) interference: undue influence on researchers or research results; 
  • Misuse of research: unethical applications that could violate human rights, contribute to military developments, or support criminal activities.

By embedding research security into daily practice, researchers help protect: 

  • the confidentiality of sensitive data and findings,
  • their own intellectual property and research outcomes,
  • the trustworthiness and credibility of scientific results,
  • the long-term success of international partnerships,
  • their personal and institutional reputation. 

For more examples of research security breaches, follow this link. 

Research security @ UHasselt

At Hasselt University, we embrace open and international collaboration as a cornerstone of scientific progress. At the same time, we take proactive steps to safeguard research security. 

Our approach is shaped by European and international frameworks, including:

At Hasselt University, we support researchers in conducting open and responsible research while ensuring their work remains secure and ethically sound. This means:

  • Openness as a starting point. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are essential, but some research may require additional safeguards.
  • Striking the right balance. Research security is not about restrictions, but about making informed decisions that align with academic freedom and ethical responsibility.
  • Raising awareness on the risks of research security. Would you like help in assessing research security risks for your project? Explore our tips and tricks or contact us at RRI@uhasselt.be for support. 
  • Collaborating with authorities when needed.

Tips and tricks for researchers

Protect your own research

Here’s how you can protect your work while ensuring responsible collaboration:

  • Be transparent. Inform Hasselt University and the funding partner(s) about your collaborations. 
  • Make clear agreements. Set up a partnership agreement that defines how intellectual property (Contact TTO), data, and security are handled.
  • Limit access. Only give access to your research with those you cooperate with. Ensure good security, both physical and online.
  • Travel safely. Take required precautions on your digital tools (laptop, smartphone) and data when traveling abroad. Consult travel guidelines and ask for IT-assistance.
  • Follow security policies. Adhere to UHasselt’s cybersecurity policy and be aware of procedures for hosting visitors and hiring staff.
  • Assess potential human rights concerns. Some research or partners may raise ethical or human rights concerns. Our Human Rights Commission can guide you in assessing project partners and topics. Learn more about the Human Rights Commission.
  • Request a formal advice on research security when necessary. Contact RRI@uhasselt.be to initiate a research security evaluation. 
  • Engage in ongoing training. Participate in programs like Mind the GAP and listen to our podcasts on research integrity to stay informed and prepared. 

Looking for a comprehensive guide? The VLIR guidelines (Eng/Ned) offer a complete overview of research security, helping you assess risks through questions and case studies, and providing practical procedures and mitigating measures.

 

Hosting International Researchers: A Quick Check

Welcoming an international researcher is an opportunity, but it can also raise questions around research security. These guiding questions and tips are meant to support you in spotting possible concerns early on:

  • When reviewing CVs, do I notice any potential risks related to research security (e.g., military affiliations, or ties to institutions in authoritarian regimes with frequent human rights breaches)? If in doubt, check whether the institution appears under EU sanctions via opensanctions.eu.
  • Have I prepared questions for the personal interview that help identify possible research security concerns?” For example: 
    • Can you explain more about your previous institution or research environment?
      Intent: to uncover any affiliations with military institutions or research environments
    • How was your research funded, and by which institutions or partners involved in human rights breaches or connected to military institutions? 
      Intent: To identify potential links to institutions with human rights concerns or military connections.
    • Have you worked with government, military, or industry actors? 
      Intent: To gauge whether there are relevant connections that could raise research security considerations.
  • Visa applications are assessed by the federal government. A rejection generally indicates underlying concerns, which may also relate to research security.

If you have questions or concerns, you can always contact our central point of contact RRI@uhasselt.be.

FAQ on the FWO research security tab

What is the difference between the research security tab and the ethics tab?

Research security is distinct from ethics in general, although both are important for ensuring responsible research practices. While ethics typically focuses on the welfare of participants and animals in research activities—such as ensuring informed consent and protecting vulnerable groups—research security is more concerned with the risks that your research might pose in terms of misuse, unintended consequences, or national and international security.

Key concerns in research security include:

  • The potential for research outcomes to be used for harmful purposes, including military applications or violations of human rights.
  • The protection of sensitive data and intellectual property to prevent exploitation.
  • Ensuring that research does not compromise the economic or strategic interests of a country.
  • The risk of collaborations with institutions or partners that could pose security threats.

What is dual-use research?

Dual-use research refers to research that can be applied for both civilian and military purposes, including military or other high-risk applications. For example: 

  • nuclear materials, facilities and equipment 
  • special materials and related equipment 
  • materials processing 
  • telecommunications and information security
  • sensors and lasers
  • navigation and avionic systems
  • aerospace and propulsion

When exporting dual-use items, EU regulation may apply. To verify whether your item is subject to this regulation, you can consult our webpage on dual-use or contact RRI@uhasselt.be.

What are potential mitigation measures for research security?

Mitigation measures are strategies put in place to reduce or manage potential risks to research security. These can include:

  • Restricting access to sensitive data and information.
  • Implementing cybersecurity measures to protect digital research infrastructure.
  • Developing clear agreements with collaborators on data sharing, intellectual property, and confidentiality.
  • Conducting risk assessments and implementing controls to ensure that the research does not contribute to harmful uses.

For more examples of mitigation measures consult:

What is the result of the research security tab?

The purpose of the research security tab is to raise awareness that research is interconnected with the world, and outcomes may be used in unintended ways or compromise national security or economic interests. The FWO wants to encourage researchers to assess potential risks with each application, without touching the core of freedom and openness in research.

By completing the tab, you signal that you understand the potential implications of your research. If a security concern is raised, FWO will communicate this to UHasselt for further follow-up. We will guide you through the process to obtain a research security approval.

I need a research security approval. Will this jeopardize my chances for a FWO application?

No, requiring a research security approval will not negatively impact your chances with FWO. However, it is essential to follow the procedure by contacting us early in the application process to obtain the required approval.

I need a research security approval. How can I get it?

If the research security tab indicates that a research security approval is needed, please inform RRI@uhasselt.be as soon as possible, so that we can initiate the process to obtain a research security approval. 

Research security contact point

Whenever you have questions on research security, you can reach out to RRI@uhasselt.be.

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