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Research and teaching

Take care of your research

If other states gain unwanted access to your research, it can damage your university's reputation and create problems with future funding, recruitment and collaboration opportunities.

PET believes that the threat to Danish research is real. In recent years, there have been several examples of espionage and other foreign interference. Denmark is an attractive target due to its high level of research and geopolitical location, while its tradition of openness makes research vulnerable. PET assesses that the high-tech and defence policy areas are particularly vulnerable research areas.

Research can be vulnerable

The examples below show typical situations where research can be exposed:

  • The research is likely to lead to a future commercial or patentable result.
  • It uses sensitive data or personally identifiable information such as genetic information or commercial test data.
  • It may be applicable to foreign militaries, or it may have both military and civilian applications (dual-use).
  • It potentially forms the basis for international, strategic, political negotiations or decisions.
  • Sensitive laboratory equipment is used.

URIS guidelines

The Committee on Guidelines for International Research and Innovation Cooperation (URIS) reviewed the existing framework and risks of international research and innovation cooperation, including with states such as China and Russia. The committee has a number of concrete guidelines:

  • Know the value and potential of your research.
  • Protect your knowledge and results.
  • Familiarise yourself with export control regulations and investment screening laws.

  • Examine who you work with.
  • Ask yourself why you are collaborating with them.
  • Narrow down what you are collaborating with them on.

  • Be aware that there may be a threat.
  • Focus on security procedures and systems.
  • Protect your employees and students.

How to take care of your research

  • Be aware of the threat.
  • Assess the value of your research.
  • Set boundaries for foreign visits.
  • Be careful when travelling.
  • Focus on IT security.
  • Focus on physical security.
  • Speak up if you see something.
  • Look after yourself - especially when you're vulnerable.

PET's publication: Is your research at risk?

Do you have any questions?

The GDPR and Information Security Coordinators are your local contact and advisor for day-to-day data protection and information security at SDU.

See also