{"id":3454,"date":"2026-11-05T08:32:12","date_gmt":"2026-11-05T08:32:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.napier.ac.uk\/rie\/?p=3454"},"modified":"2026-11-05T08:32:12","modified_gmt":"2026-11-05T08:32:12","slug":"research-collaboration-matters-so-does-research-security","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.napier.ac.uk\/rie\/research-collaboration-matters-so-does-research-security\/","title":{"rendered":"Research collaboration matters. So does research security."},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>Research at Edinburgh Napier University is built on collaboration. <\/strong><\/p>\n

In this article, Joanne Douglas<\/a>, 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The changing research landscape<\/strong><\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n

That’s why the recent MI5 espionage alert<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n

Supporting secure and responsible collaboration<\/strong><\/h4>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Trusted research and due diligence <\/strong><\/h4>\n

This is where the UK Government’s Trusted Research campaign<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n

Collaborate with confidence<\/strong><\/h4>\n

We encourage all staff involved in research activity to:<\/p>\n