Research Security
What is research security?
The ability to identify possible risks to a researcher’s work through unwanted access, interference or theft and enact measures that minimize these risks and protect the inputs, processes and products that are part of scientific research and discovery.
Definition source: Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED), Government of Canada.
Why protect your research?
International collaborations are fundamental to our research enterprise. They enrich the research experience, bring diverse ideas together and help partners strengthen the impact of their work for the benefit of society. Given the current geopolitical climate, it is vitally important to understand that some partnerships involve risk and steps should be taken to protect your research and intellectual property.
What is McMaster’s approach?
The Office of the Vice-President, Research (OVPR) is here to support faculty members and administrators as they navigate evolving government research security guidance, including grant proposals. McMaster recognizes the value of international research collaborations in advancing our individual and collective research discoveries. The OVPR team is here to support your efforts and ensure McMaster’s research remains secure and competitive on the global stage.
All McMaster researchers are encouraged to take steps towards protecting their research. Below are some guides and resources to help.
In the News
Government of Canada ➚
Government of Canada releases Canada’s Sensitive Technology List
Research Security
Goverment of Canada ➚
Statement on Research Security - National Research Council Canada
Research Security
Update regarding federal government's new research security policy
Research Security
Federal government announces new policy to protect Canadian research
Research Security
OVPR Research Security Update: October 11, 2023
Research Security
Government of Canada ➚
Statement from Minister Champagne, Minister Duclos and Minister Mendicino on protecting Canada’s research
Research Security
Know the Risks, Protect Your Research
These resources offer information, guidance and best practices to help the academic community familiarize themselves with research security and risk.
Safeguarding Your Research Website Learn More
Government of Canada
Guidelines & Tools to Implement Research Security Learn More
Government of Canada
G7 Best Practices for Secure and Open Research Learn More
Government of Canada
Safeguarding Research at Ontario's Universities Learn More
Ontario’s Universities
A Shared Commitment by Universities to Protect Ontario’s Research Learn More
Ontario’s Universities
Policy Statements on Research Security Learn More
Government of Canada
Case Studies: How a security breach can impact your research Learn More
Government of Canada
Emerging Technology Trend Cards Learn More
Government of Canada
Research Security & Grants
These risk assessment forms and resources can help you in preparing grant applications.
Research Security Guidelines and FAQs Learn More
Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities
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Application Attestation Form Learn More
Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities
Please note: Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view and complete this form.
Mitigating Economic and Geopolitical Risk Checklist Learn More
Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities
Please note: Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view and complete this form.
Tri-Agency Guidance on STRAC Policy Learn More
NSERC, CIHR and SSHRC
CFI Guidance on Research Security Learn More
Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI)
Due Diligence & Mitigation of Risk
These resources can help you identify, assess and develop mitigations for research security risks.
Mitigating Economic and/or Geopolitical Risks in Sensitive Research Projects Download PDF
U15 and Universities Canada
Safeguarding Your Research Checklist Learn More
Canadian Security Intelligence Service
Assessing Your Risk Profile (Research Security) Learn More
Government of Canada
Sensitive Research Areas Learn More
Government of Canada
Sensitive Technology List Learn More
Government of Canada
Research Security Training Courses Learn More
Government of Canada
Assessing Your Risk Profile (Procurement and Supply Chain) Learn More
Government of Canada
Cybersecurity, Information Security & Data Management
These resources provide guidance on securely managing your data and information and protecting your research from cyber threats.
Security Considerations for Research and Development Learn More
Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
Cyber Security Resources Learn More
Government of Canada
Research Data Management Services Learn More
McMaster University
Information Technology Security for Researchers Learn More
McMaster University
Travel Security & Awareness
These guides can help ensure you travel safely and securely.
Far From Home: A Travel Security Guide Learn More
Government of Canada
Travel Security Guide for University Researchers and Staff Download PDF
U15 and Universities Canada
Mobile Device Guidance for High Profile Travellers Learn More
Government of Canada
Events & Training
Travelling Safely: Protecting Your Research While Travelling Abroad Register here
May 16, 2025
Hosted by the Research Security Centre, this module will provide a global overview of the threat environment when travelling, a summary of techniques used by foreign governments to gain advantage of your research, and best practices to follow before, during, and after your trip.
Conducting Open-Source Due-Diligence Register here
May 21, 2025
Hosted by the Research Security Centre, this module provides an overview of open-source due-diligence techniques for researchers to use when evaluating the risks related to their potential partners. The outcome of this module will enhance researchers’ ability to find relevant information using open-source methods.
2025 Research Security Conference: Navigating New Domestic and Global Frontiers Learn more
June 3-4, 2025
University of British Columbia
Join with colleagues at UBC’s Vancouver campus for two days of informative presentations, interactive discussion and networking with research security practitioners from around the world.