National framework for research security

To safeguard Danish universities’ scientific activities against misuse, espionage, and foreign interference, there is a strong focus on research security and reciprocity in international collaborations at both national and EU level.

At the national level, the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science has issued Guidelines for International Research and Innovation Cooperation (May 2022), developed by the URIS Committee (Advisory Committee on Guidelines for International Research and Innovation Cooperation). These guidelines are aligned with EU recommendations on research security, which emphasize protecting critical knowledge and ensuring responsible international partnerships.

The Danish guidelines require universities to implement concrete measures to:

1. Identify and protect critically important research – including technologies with dual-use potential and sensitive data.
2. Know your partners – conduct due diligence on institutions and individuals to assess risks of foreign interference or misuse of technologies.
3. Protect your institution, employees, and students – through awareness, training, and secure collaboration frameworks.

In addition, the universities must

• Address reputational, economical, and security risks in all international engagements.

• Establish organizational frameworks and procedures for risk assessment and mitigation.

• Contribute to a national approach and knowledge sharing among authorities and universities.

DTU’s Implementation of research security

At DTU, the national guidelines are integrated into our research security framework. DTU takes a structured, risk-based approach to international collaboration, which includes:

• A central committee for security in research, innovation, and education activities.
• Partner due diligence procedures aligned with the Danish authorities’ threat assessments.
• Risk assessment procedures for new employees.
• Risk assessment procedure for guest researchers and visitors.

The approach ensures that DTU remains a trusted partner in global research while safeguarding Danish interests.