Research at Edinburgh Napier University is built on collaboration.
In this article, Joanne Douglas, Head of Research Governance at the University, explains why research security is becoming increasingly important and how the principles of trusted research can help researchers collaborate with confidence while protecting people, knowledge and innovation.
The changing research landscape
The UK’s research community thrives on collaboration. Strong international partnerships help us tackle global challenges, drive innovation, and deliver research with real-world impact. But as the research landscape becomes increasingly complex, so too do the risks that can accompany collaboration.
That’s why the recent MI5 espionage alert to UK higher education institutions is an important reminder for all of us. The alert highlights growing efforts by hostile actors to gain access to valuable research, expertise, and technology through seemingly legitimate academic and research relationships.
Supporting secure and responsible collaboration
While most research collaborations are positive, productive, and entirely legitimate, the alert reinforces the need for universities and researchers to remain aware of potential risks and to approach new partnerships with appropriate diligence. Research security is not about limiting collaboration. It’s about enabling safe, informed, and confident engagement with partners around the world.
Good research security protects our people, our ideas, our intellectual assets, and the integrity of our research. It helps ensure that valuable knowledge and technologies are used for the purposes intended and that our collaborations continue to deliver benefits for society.
Trusted research and due diligence
This is where the UK Government’s Trusted Research campaign plays a vital role. This provides practical guidance to help universities, researchers, and support staff identify and manage potential risks associated with international research partnerships. The framework encourages proportionate due diligence, informed decision-making, and a balanced approach that protects both academic freedom and national interests.
Collaborate with confidence
We encourage all staff involved in research activity to:
- Familiarise themselves with the principles of Trusted Research.
- Consider potential security and integrity risks when developing new collaborations.
- Seek advice early when engaging with unfamiliar partners, organisations, or funding opportunities.
- Engage proactively with due diligence processes and provide timely information to support partnership assessments.
- Make use of the support and guidance available across the University.
Useful resources for ENU staff and students
- Trusted research collaboration checklist
- UK Government trusted research guidance for academia
- Trusted research at Edinburgh Napier (accessible to ENU staff and students only)
- Due diligence processes and responsible partnering (accessible to ENU staff and students only)
Research collaboration remains one of our greatest strengths. By embracing good research security practices, we can continue to collaborate openly, confidently, and responsibly while protecting the value and integrity of our research.
Need advice or support?
Research security is a shared responsibility, and support is available.
For Edinburgh Napier staff and students, if you are considering a new collaboration, have questions about a prospective partner, or would like advice on research security considerations, please speak to your Research Funding Manager, Research Governance or Knowledge Exchange and Innovation team.