Safeguarding Your Research
As part of a world-class research university, University of Alberta researchers regularly collaborate in international partnerships, developing innovative solutions to shared global challenges and fundamental research questions. The U of A is committed to safe and responsible research, commercialization and technology transfer collaborations.
New in 2026
- March 2026: 2025 Impact Report
- February 2026: The Safeguarding Research Office has revised the Research Security Requirements At-A-Glance tool to help researchers quickly identify the research security requirements that apply to specific funding opportunities as well as information on next steps. Note: this PDF must be downloaded to be able to use the links throughout.
Now Available — Resources for Researchers
U of A employees can now view the new Safeguarding Research Office website to access additional information, guidance and resources.
Employees must sign in to their browser with their ualberta.ca email account to view this resource.
What is research security?
Research security refers to the efforts to safeguard research and researchers against activities which threaten intellectual property, national security, critical infrastructure and the integrity of the research ecosystem. These activities can include foreign interference, espionage, and unwanted knowledge transfer or theft.
Why is safeguarding research important?
Researchers must protect their research investments against threat actors seeking to acquire and exploit knowledge and data for their own advantage. Safeguarding your research means you retain control over when, where and how your research is shared, published and applied, while also contributing to Canada’s national security.
How you can safeguard your research
Research security is a shared responsibility, and your actions increase our collective resilience. The Safeguarding Research Office has the resources and information to help ensure your research is protected.
The Government of Canada is introducing new guidelines for researchers under the Policy on Sensitive Technology Research and Affiliations of Concern. Resources on how you can implement the policy will be coming soon from the Safeguarding Research Office.
RESOURCES
Government of Canada
- Safeguarding Your Research Portal — Includes training, checklists, case studies and guidance
- National Security Guidelines for Research Partnerships
- Canadian Centre for Cyber Security: Information for academia
- Tri-agency guidance on research security
- Canada Foundation for Innovation Guidance on Research Security