Do you know if your research is secure? Community of practice responds to growing need for awareness

In the 21st century, research has become more interconnected through global collaboration. But this increased connectivity also makes research more vulnerable. As a result, ensuring a high standard of research security has become more critical than ever before.

As a graduate student intern with the Research Security Division at the UCalgary’s Research Services Office, I recently had the opportunity to attend the Alberta Research Security Community of Practice Annual General Meeting and Workshop, held at UCalgary on June 19–20, 2025. 

This event brought together 64 representatives from 20 member institutions across Alberta. It provided a valuable platform for hands-on learning, collaboration, and engagement with representatives from the Government of Alberta and Public Safety Canada.

Event drives home growing importance of research security 

Before starting my internship, “research security” wasn’t a term I heard often — and certainly not one I fully understood. But throughout this workshop, its importance in today’s fast‑evolving research landscape became clear. 

In a world where international collaboration is the norm and technology moves faster than policy, protecting sensitive data, intellectual property, and strategic partnerships can no longer be neglected. It is important to be proactive and consistently stay informed about research security. 

Role of collaborative learning in research security 

Learning is always an interactive process. As a student intern still navigating the complexities of research security, I found the Community of Practice Mentorship Program in this event impactful because it emphasizes collaborative learning. 

In the program, mentees are paired with mentors from various institutions based on specific interests and needs. Importantly, the learning and support continue well beyond the workshop. 

For example, my mentorship group includes individuals from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Lakeland College, and UCalgary. My mentor, Matt Sutherland, is a specialist in open-source intelligence, or OSINT, within the Research Security Division. OSINT is the process of collecting and analyzing publicly available sources to verify whether entities are who they say they are. Sutherland has been incredibly proactive in sharing valuable resources and tips for conducting effective OSINT searches. 

Mentors encourage open dialogue

It was reassuring to see such a strong, supportive framework in place, especially during moments of imposter syndrome. As a new learner in research security, I sometimes worry that my questions might seem naive or trivial. 

However, knowing that this community encourages open dialogue makes me feel more supported. This also speaks to the importance of discursive learning, shared knowledge and growth in a field that remains new to many of us. 

Evolving risks: AI tools 

Another important takeaway from the event was the extensive reach of research security concerns. This extends beyond simply being mindful of who you partner with; it also involves responsibly protecting your research data and information. It has become common practice for researchers and students to turn to generative AI tools like ChatGPT when brainstorming research ideas or paraphrasing proposals. However, one must remain cautious about the sensitive nature of the information shared to avoid potentially exposing unpublished research or confidential details. 

A shared responsibility for all 

After taking part in this event, it was empowering to see that there’s a role for all researchers in shaping a culture of research security awareness and responsibility. I’m excited to see research security culture continue to grow as we all engage and contribute. 

The goal of UCalgary's Research Security team is to "help you get to YES!" by supporting researchers in identifying and mitigating risks associated with research partnerships. 

Some of the team’s services and areas of expertise are:

• Partner vetting
• Federal, provincial, and international research security requirements
• Risk assessment and mitigation support
• Sanctions, export controls, and controlled goods
• Travel security and loaner devices
• Resources, workshops, and training 

All UCalgary researchers and students are strongly encouraged to make use of the available research security support at the Office of Research Services for any questions regarding safe research practices. You can learn more and connect with the team via our website. 

Travel security events planned for late-summer and fall of 2025

Research Security’s upcoming Travel Security Essentials for Research lunch 'n' learn sessions will provide an overview of travel security best practices and inform you of UCalgary programs and services available to help researchers travel securely. 

Attendees will learn basic steps to protect yourself when preparing to travel, navigating border points of entry, and safeguarding sensitive research data while abroad.

Register now:

• Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
• Tuesday, Sept. 23 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.