Policies and Guidance

Sanctions, export controls, and research security are critical components of responsible research. They help protect national security, safeguard sensitive technologies and information, ensure compliance with federal and state requirements, and preserve Purdue’s ability to conduct world-class research with collaborators around the world.

Most research activities can proceed without restriction. However, certain projects, technologies, information, international activities, or external agreements may require additional review or safeguards.

Research Security and Export Controls (RSEC) partners with faculty, staff, and students to identify potential risks, navigate regulatory requirements, and implement practical compliance solutions that support research while protecting the University’s interests.

Understanding the policies and requirements that govern your research helps protect you, your work and the university. The resources below cover key areas where Purdue researchers may need to apply specific protocols or follow established procedures.

Guidance Resources

The following pages provide additional information on specific topics:

• Research Security Program Policy – Purdue’s institutional framework for implementing research security requirements.
• Sanctions and Export Control Regulations – Requirements governing exports and activities involving sanctioned countries or restricted parties.
• Protecting External Confidential Information – Guidance for safeguarding proprietary or confidential information received from external sponsors or collaborators.
• Managing Controlled Software – Requirements for software subject to export controls or other access restrictions.
• Technology Control Plans (TCPs) – Required safeguards for protecting export-controlled information, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and other controlled items.
• Controlled Thesis Submission Process – Procedures for submitting theses or dissertations containing export-controlled or other restricted information.
• General Guidance Memoranda (GGM) – Guidance for certain activities involving unique national security requirements.

If you are unsure whether a particular activity requires review or additional safeguards, contact Research Security and Export Controls before proceeding.