Freedom of science is the cornerstone of the European science and innovation system and also forms the basis for scientific integrity, transparency and trusting cooperation. 

This essential freedom can only continue to develop if it is protected. Increased vigilance is the primary means of achieving this.

Research security is the new topic in the scientific community in Europe. It is due to rapid geopolitical change, in which future technologies play and will continue to play a decisive role. The danger of unwanted data leakage is evident and is increasingly finding its way into the global media under the heading of ‘scientific espionage’. 

Research security therefore deals with the management of risks arising from the unwanted disclosure of information, foreign interference and violations of scientific integrity. 

In principle, these unwanted actions can cause problems with sometimes serious consequences anywhere at TU Wien. The following forms are internationally known:

  • Theft of intellectual property: e.g. through cyber attacks

  • Influencing academic institutions through financial contributions (also in the form of partnerships) in order to push agendas in third countries

  • Recruiting researchers: Researchers are specifically targeted in order to win them over to foreign interests. This is achieved, for example, through attractive financing models or the provision of generous infrastructure.

  • Cooperation agreements are used to obtain research data that can be used for military or economic purposes.

 

To address this multifaceted topic, an interdisciplinary working group was formed at TU Wien, which works closely with the Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation and International Affairs. The working group offers low-threshold advice on how to deal with problematic cases and prepares any necessary decision-making bases for the Rectorate. 

Eva Bartlmä, opens an external URL in a new window (Legal Affairs) and Marjo Rauhala, opens an external URL in a new window  (Senior Advisor for Research Ethics and Integrity) coordinate the working group and are also the official points of contact for the Federal Ministry for Women, Science and Research.

You can find more information on cooperation with China here: https://colab.tuwien.ac.at/x/SxpfDg, opens an external URL in a new window (TUW-login required)

 

Please contact us at research-security@tuwien.ac.at if:

  • you are planning cooperation with critical third countries

  • you want to attend conferences in critical third countries

  • you are organising conferences in which guests from critical third countries could participate

  • visiting professors or students from critical third countries want to come to TU Wien