1 December 2025

International collaboration is essential to our research and teaching, but it also presents risks. We have a compulsory knowledge security check for all new international research collaborations.

What are the risks of international collaboration?

As a university, we develop knowledge that can be used for good purposes, but it could also fall into the wrong hands.

This could happen if we inadvertently share sensitive data or technology, such as research on AI in surveillance equipment. But knowledge security can also relate to unwanted foreign influence. This could involve situations in which researchers are pressurised into changing research results. Ethical matters can also be relevant: for instance, if your research is being conducted in a country where fundamental rights are not respected.

This makes it important to identify and mitigate risks. This ensures we protect the knowledge, academic freedom and safety of our students and staff.

When is knowledge security relevant?

Whether you need to consider knowledge security depends on your job. If you work in research, it’s an integral part of your work and can involve situations such as:

• New international collaborations with individuals, knowledge institutions, businesses or governments.
• Visits by foreign delegations and visits abroad by delegations from our university.
• Attending/giving lectures or attending/presenting at conferences outside the EU.

Do the knowledge security check

• If you initiate international collaboration, you are required to weigh up the opportunities (interests) and risks with the knowledge security flowchart. Do this together with your scientific director. 
• If you have any questions, contact your faculty’s knowledge security contact person or the Knowledge Security Advice Desk.

If you’re still unsure, submit your question to the Knowledge Security Committee via the Knowledge Security Advice Desk.

More information

For more information, see the Knowledge security page for tips and tools.