UMB Research Security Program

The University of Maryland Baltimore’s research efforts extend from bench to bedside, globally and locally. UMB investigators often plan and participate in projects that involve international collaborators, foreign travel, or short- or long-term research or training outside the United States. 

Increased concern has been expressed through both federal legislative actions and agency regulations about protecting national security and U.S. economic interests when taxpayer dollars fund the University’s work. UMB investigators must be responsible stewards of these funds and ensure that UMB is mindful of protecting intellectual property and know-how, as required by funding terms. UMB is committed to protecting U.S. research and innovation and complying with U.S. Government regulations.

Research security – Safeguarding the research enterprise against the misappropriation of research and development to the detriment of national or economic security, related violations of research integrity, and foreign government interference. 

National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33)

NSPM-33 established a national security policy for U.S. Government-supported Research & Development. The purpose of NSPM-33 is to strengthen protections of U.S. Government-supported R&D against foreign government interference and misappropriation while maintaining an open environment to foster research discoveries and innovation that benefit the United States and the world. 

Five key areas addressed in NSPM- 33

  • Disclosure Requirements and Standardization
  • Digital Persistent Identifiers
  • Consequences for Violation of Disclosure Requirements
  • Information Sharing
  • Research Security Programs

NSPM-33 requires a certification from research organizations awarded more than $50 million per year in total Federal research funding that they have implemented a research security program that includes the four elements highlighted in NSPM-33: 

Research Security Program Elements

Cybersecurity

Safeguarding protocols and procedures for information systems used to store, transmit, and conduct federally funded research and development.

Export Controls

Processes and training for research and development that is subject to export control restrictions

International Travel

Disclosure of travel, briefings, procedures and review.

Training

Research security threat awareness, identification, and insider threats, and training on procedures including cybersecurity, disclosure of conflicts of interest and conflicts of commitment, and related topics.

The Office of Research & Development (ORD) is committed to supporting UMB’s efforts to promote international research collaborations by safeguarding against undue foreign influence. ORD will engage with stakeholders and process owners to create a coordinated approach to meet program requirements. ORD is in the process of developing guidance and critical resources regarding UMB’s compliance obligations and will enact policies and procedures for the campus to satisfy elements of the research security program as mandated by NSPM-33. 

UMB has designated the Research Security Manager within the Office of Research & Development as the point of contact.