Three days of intensive discussions and exchanges on research security at ASCE 2025, the world's largest conference on this topic. Together with the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the German Research Foundation (DFG), and the Helmholtz Association, Friederike Schröder, Deputy Managing Director and Head of International Affairs at German U15, provided insights into the current development of research security in Germany.

 

Protecting research, preserving freedom: the balancing act

Research security has become a central topic of science policy in recent years – both nationally and internationally. In an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, research institutions are faced with the challenge of safeguarding academic freedom while minimising potential risks.

Germany is at a crucial point in this debate: developing a national research security strategy goes beyond protecting sensitive technologies or defending against external influences. It is also about actively shaping the future of international scientific cooperation: What regulations are necessary to protect research without jeopardizing openness? Where do potential conflicts of interest arise between security measures and scientific cooperation? And how can we ensure that we remain an attractive and reliable partner in global research? These and other questions were discussed at ASCE 2025.

 

What we took away from ASCE 2025

With over 600 participants from 25 countries – including representatives from more than 150 universities, ministries and research funding organisations – the conference once again provided a central platform for exchange, joint learning and shaping research security in international cooperation. What were the main topics?

• Cybersecurity: The greatest risk for unwanted knowledge leakage and influence is seen in missing or inadequate cybersecurity structures.
• Harmonisation of research security structures: Our partners in Europe and North America are continuously expanding their research security structures and expect the same from their international partners. This means that common security standards among close research partners will continue to gain in relevance.
• Value of international dialogue: The exchange with international partners about the advantages and disadvantages of different research security structures is essential. Research must remain open, but risks must be minimised. Standardised structures are not required, but through dialogue and collaboration, countries can learn from each other and harmonise their approaches.

 

ASCE 2025 took place from 25-27 February 2025 at the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center in College Station. It was organised by the RISC Institute of the Texas A&M University System and is considered the most important platform for international exchange on research security.