Export controls and Compliance in Research

Secure research starts with the right foundations. Here you will find concise guidance on export controls and compliance to help you share data, collaborate internationally, and advance your research safely and lawfully.

Risk Analysis Checklist

Risk Analysis Checklist (Word, 208.57 KB)

About Export controls and Compliance

Export control regulates how technology, materials, software and knowledge may be shared across national borders. Certain technologies and equipment can be used for both civilian and military purposes (dual use) and are therefore subject to specific requirements or permits.

Examples of items that may be regulated include:

laboratory equipment
biological material
software
research data and technical documentation (“know-how”)

Read more:

Compliance means that research is conducted correctly, safely, and in accordance with laws, regulations, and internal guidelines from planning to publication.

This may include:

customs and trade regulations
controlled substances (ie narcotic drugs)
animal by-products
biosafety and transport regulations

Research often involves international collaboration. Some activities require specific handling or permit, such as:

sharing data, materials or software
transporting samples or equipment
international partnerships
research in AI, biotechnology or other sensitive areas

Being aware of the regulations helps you reduce the risk of:

delays
delivery disruptions (stopped shipments)
non-compliance

Read More:
Guidance on security-sensitive research is available at the Swedish Research Council Vetenskapsrådet

Research Security

Research security is about identifying and managing risks that may affect research, knowledge, data, infrastructure or collaborations. The aim is to ensure that research can be conducted openly and internationally while protecting assets that could be misused, exploited or transferred in ways that may harm society, national security or the research organisation.

International collaboration is fundamental to research and innovation. At the same time, research organisations increasingly operate in a complex global environment where knowledge, technology and research results may be of strategic interest to external actors. Understanding research security risks helps researchers make informed decisions while preserving academic openness and integrity.

Research security considerations may be relevant when:

collaborating with international partners
sharing data, software, equipment or know-how
conducting research in strategically important or emerging technologies
handling sensitive research data or infrastructure
receiving external funding from unfamiliar organisations or entities

Research security is a shared responsibility.

Researchers and project leaders should identify potential risks and seek support when needed.
Line managers and departments support risk-informed decision-making.
Specialist support functions provide guidance, tools and assessments.

KI provides support regarding:

research security assessments
international collaborations
export controls and compliance requirements
information security and data protection
relevant legislation, policies and procedures

If you are uncertain whether research security considerations apply to your project, contact the Compliance and Data Office at an early stage.

What to consider in a research project

Assess research security risks. Consider whether the project involves international collaborations, sensitive information, strategic technologies or other circumstances that may require enhanced due diligence or a research security assessment. Seek advice early when needed.
Assess whether regulations apply. Investigate whether your technology, data or materials are covered by export control or other regulatory frameworks. Read more: Swedish Inspectorate of Strategic Products (ISP) and Swedish Customs (Tullverket)
Document decisions and permits. Ensure that all requirements and approved permits are clearly documented and easy to access.
Follow internal procedures. Use internal processes and guidelines, especially in international collaborations or sensitive research.
Use available tools and support. Checklists, templates and process flowcharts are available to help you comply with regulations.