Effective October 1, 2025
For All New Federal Proposals (At the Proposal Stage)
Pre-submission Verification: All USNH personnel named on a federal funding proposal must have completed the applicable Research Security Training in CITI. Proposals cannot be submitted unless all named personnel have met the training requirement.
For All New Federal Awards (After an Award is Made)
Post-Award Compliance: All personnel supported by a new federal award (including graduate students and staff added after funding) must complete the applicable Research Security Training.
A Research Security Program is mandated by the federal government to safeguard research institutions that receive federal funding from foreign government interference and exploitation. National Security Presidential Memorandum-33 (NSPM-33) is an executive directive designed to protect the security and integrity of federally funded research.
Research security encompasses national security concerns related to sensitive data, intellectual property, export-controlled information, and other potential risks. Its primary purpose is to protect the public’s investment in research, prevent the misuse of advanced technologies and data by hostile actors, and ensure the safety of university personnel, particularly when traveling abroad.
The federal government is placing increased emphasis on key areas such as the disclosure of conflicts of interest and commitment—particularly relationships with or support from foreign entities. Federal agencies have made clear that failure to properly disclose such affiliations may put future funding eligibility at risk.
The University System of New Hampshire (USNH) is deeply committed to freedom of inquiry and the advancement of knowledge. The institution remains steadfast in its commitment to international collaboration and in its stance against national origin discrimination. However, it is important that all faculty members understand the current regulatory and enforcement landscape.
As specified in NSPM-33 final implementation guidance, a research security program must include:
- A cybersecurity program consistent with the National Institute of Standards and Technology guidance
- Foreign travel security that includes periodic training for covered individuals and reporting requirements
- Research security training for covered individuals and an institution's certification of individuals' completion of such training
- Export control training for covered individuals who perform research and development involving export-controlled technologies and processes for reviewing foreign sponsors, collaborators, and partnerships
Under the final implementation guidance, federal research agencies may develop additional requirements for research security programs beyond the four elements above.
These webpages were adapted with permission from the University of Oregon's Research Security Program webpage (Research Security Program | Research and Innovation).
Victor Sosa, Director
Contracts & Export Controls
Phone: (603) 862-2001
Email: victor.sosa@unh.edu
Melissa McGee, Assistant Director
Research Integrity Services
Phone: (603) 862-2005
Email: melissa.mcgee@unh.edu
