Challenges and Innovative Changes in Research Ethics Reviews (Policy brief), 2025

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What is this about?

The CHANGER D1.2 Policy Brief outlines how research security (RS) has become a crucial dimension of contemporary science policy, especially in strategically critical fields like Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technologies, and Biotechnology. It highlights how Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Research Performing Organizations (RPOs) are increasingly exposed to risks such as knowledge or technology leakage, foreign interference, and misuse of research in geopolitical or security contexts.

The brief notes that “research security” is still a nascent, ambiguously defined concept across the research ecosystem, with varied understandings among stakeholders. It points out institutional challenges: balancing institutional autonomy, open science, and international collaboration with security obligations; the burden of compliance and administrative costs; and the lack of in-house expertise or risk-assessment tools to manage RS. One proposed idea is “research security-by-design”, analogous to “ethics-by-design,” meaning that security risks should be anticipated and addressed from project inception. The brief presents a series of policy recommendations aimed at clarifying responsibilities, enhancing capacities, and integrating RS into institutional governance all in ways that respect academic freedom and research integrity while safeguarding sensitive knowledge.

Why is this important?

This policy brief is important because the evolving geopolitical landscape and advanced technologies present new vulnerabilities for scientific research vulnerabilities that can compromise knowledge, national security, and public trust. Without clear frameworks and institutional capacity, HEIs and RPOs risk exposure to misuse, undue influence, or loss of control over sensitive research outputs. The concept of research security if left undefined can create confusion and weak implementation. By proposing a “by-design” approach and concrete policy measures, the brief helps bridge the gap between open science values and necessary safeguards. It also prompts institutions, funders, and policymakers to proactively address security without undermining collaboration and autonomy in research.

For whom is this important?

Policy makers and government authoritiesResearch Ethics Committees and Integrity OfficesResearch Institutions and UniversitiesResearchers

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When

2025