Handbook of Operating Procedures 7-1050

Classified Research Policy

Effective September 17, 2015
Executive Sponsor: Vice President for Research
Policy Owner: Executive Assistant to the Vice President for Research

 

1. Policy Statement

The University of Texas at Austin ("University") will conduct its classified research program in a manner that

• will contribute to the University's missions of research, education, and public service in a demonstrable manner through research products, educational programs, or other public service roles;
• will not accept any classified research contract which restricts freedom to acknowledge the existence of the contract, to identify the sponsor, or to disclose the general purpose and scope of the proposed research in sufficient detail to permit informed discussion regarding its appropriateness within the University; and
• will assure classified research activities occurring on University premises, or on behalf of the University off campus, are conducted in accordance with applicable federal regulations and guidelines, the University's governing policies and procedures, and The University of Texas System Board of Regents' Rules and Regulations.

2. Reason for Policy

To provide the framework for ensuring that any classified research activity is conducted under proper oversight from the University administration, complies with federal regulations governing classified research, and contributes to the University's missions.
 

3. Scope & Audience

This policy applies to all University employees, students, and affiliated researchers who are engaged in a classified research activity occurring in University facilities, and at other locations when those projects involve University funding, sponsorship, faculty scholarship, or involves University faculty, staff, or student effort as part of that activity.
 

4. Definitions (specific to this policy)

Classified Research:

Any research requiring access to information to which the federal government applies a security classification.
 

5. Website (for policy)

https://secure4.compliancebridge.com/utexas/public/getdoc.ph?file=7-1050
 

6. Contacts

7. Responsibilities & Procedures

The Advisory Committee on Classified Research ("Committee") provides oversight of the University's classified research.

1. The Committee is charged with (1) reviewing the classified research program for conformance with University policy and advising the vice president for research accordingly; (2) considering issues relative to the University's policy regarding classified research and recommending changes in policy as necessary; and (3) reviewing procedures relative to classified research programs and considering infrastructure needs and administrative issues. The Committee must meet at least annually.

2. The Committee reports to the vice president for research who serves as an ex-officio member of the committee and appoints its members.

3. The Committee is required to annually submit a report to the vice president for research reporting its findings relative to compliance with this policy and outlining any recommendations for change in the University's classified research program or to relevant policies.

8. Forms & Tools

 Advisory Committee on Classified Research
 

9. Frequently Asked Questions

None
 

10. Related Information

 Advisory Committee on Classified Research

 Resources for Researchers
 

11. History

Modified:  09/17/2015
     Last review date: 04/25/2023
     Next scheduled review: 04/2026

Previously HOP 5.09