In an era of intensifying geopolitical competition and growing concerns over foreign interference, research security has rapidly ascended the policy agenda across Europe. In a recent UK parliamentary inquiry into Science Diplomacy, the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee discussed the importance of international scientific collaboration to build relationships, address global challenges and ensure a focus on research integrity rather than on policing research and academic institutions. Research security has been a growing area of interest in the science diplomacy community due to evolving geopolitical dynamics, and as such STEaPP, in partnership with the Policy Impact Unit (PIU) and other academic institutions, are eager to explore this topic in greater depth.
This seminar will explore the evolving landscape of research security policies and practices, drawing on findings from a recent research report that was commissioned by the UK government’s Science & Technology Network and written by Andrew James, Professor of Innovation Management and Policy at the University of Manchester, and colleagues. The study examines threat perceptions and institutional responses in several European countries, revealing a patchwork of approaches and capacities among governments and research organisations. This session will also explore the aims of a recently launched project at the University of Manchester that investigates how aware UK academics are of research security and how this shapes their behaviour.
This seminar is designed for policymakers, researchers and those interested in the intersection of science policy, international collaboration and national security. It will balance practical insights into the current research landscape with national security concerns, inviting discussion on how to build resilient, open and secure academic ecosystems.
Join us for this webinar taking place on Tuesday 9th September from 13:30-15:00 PM BST where we will hear from Professor Andrew James, STEaPP experts on Science Diplomacy and the PIU on this pressing issue and what it means for national and international policymakers.
