Export Controls

How do Export Controls Affect University Research Activities & Funding?

1. Increased Federal Government Scrutiny of Universities.
   
   Heightened security concerns following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, have led to increased scrutiny by government regulators of the vital role that research universities play in the development of U.S. military and commercial technology. The U.S. government also recognizes that universities undertake many activities with non-U.S. persons and in foreign countries, including countries that have had problematic relations with the United States.
   
   
2. Increased Scrutiny of University Researchers by Grant Sponsors.
   
   In response to increased government scrutiny of universities, more and more sponsors are requiring grant proposals to address export controls compliance.
   
   
3. Violations Compromise the Conduct and Funding of University Research.
   
   Violations of export controls, especially willful violations, can result in:
   1. shutdown of research projects
   2. fines ranging from tens of thousands of dollars to $1 million per violation
   3. damage to the university's reputation
   4. loss of export privileges for the university, which could affect all research projects
   5. imprisonment for violators, where the violation is sufficiently egregious