Research Security Training Requirement

The Policy on International Engagements has been updated to include a requirement for Research Security Training, and we urge you to complete it as soon as possible, but no later than August 31, 2025.

Click here to complete the required Research Security Training in CITI (complete instructions are listed below).

Why are we implementing Research Security Training?
Research security is essential for safeguarding research from misuse that could harm national or economic security, compromise research integrity, or involve interference by foreign governments. Stony Brook University’s Research Security Training provides our community with a basic overview of these critical issues, best practices, and resources on campus.

Who is required to complete Research Security Training?

All faculty involved in externally and internally funded research activities, and
Any non-faculty that meets the definition of “covered individual” (42 USC § 19237(1))

We also highly recommend this training for all faculty, staff, students, and others involved in any international engagements. Understanding these principles will help to protect your work and our institution.

What Research Security Training is required?
At a minimum, all required individuals must complete one of the following options in CITI:

Research Security Condensed Course: A one-hour condensed version of the National Science Foundation's (NSF) four research security training modules.
Research Security Training Course: The complete four NSF modules (time commitment will vary but typically takes 2-3 hours).

Please Note: There may be additional requirements for researchers with federally sponsored research. Some sponsors may require completion of all four NSF modules or additional training as part of a risk mitigation plan on specific research projects. Visit the Research Security Training page for current federal sponsor agency requirements or check the program announcement you are applying to.

How do I access CITI?

The Collaborative Institutional Training Institute (CITI) is used to deliver most of SBU’s research training. CITI is available to all SBU faculty, staff and students.

To access CITI:

Go to the CITI website.
Select the “Log In Through My Organization” option and use your NetID and password.
Once logged in, select “Add a Course.”
Choose “I want to complete the Research Security Course at this time.”
Select the appropriate training option (condensed or full), and follow the prompts to complete the course.

When does the Research Security Training need to be completed?

Research Security Training must be completed no later than August 31, 2025, with the following exceptions:

Department of Energy Proposals: Researchers submitting a proposal to the Department of Energy must complete Research Security Training prior to the submission of their proposals. This includes all covered individuals.
Award Notices: Researchers receiving award notices with Research Security Training requirements must fulfill all applicable training requirements prior to the establishment of an award.

Please reach out to ovpr_researchsecurity_admin@stonybrook.edu or visit the Research Security Training website if you have any questions or concerns.