June 18, 2026 (OTTAWA, ON) – In response to the Defence Industrial Strategy and evolving risks, U15 Canada today published updated guidance on best practices for safeguarding research. The guidance reflects the latest developments in research security practices at U15 universities across the country and the evolution of federal policies governing the secure conduct of research, updating a guide first issued in 2023.
Canada’s leading research universities take the importance of maintaining research security extremely seriously. In recent years, universities have acted proactively to safeguard research, including establishing clear internal policies for the secure conduct of research, strengthening due diligence on research partnerships and establishing dedicated research security offices to advise researchers on evolving threats.
U15 universities are committed to being a secure and reliable partner, including in defence and dual-use research. As geopolitical threats continue to evolve and the new Defence Industrial Strategy calls on universities to advance sovereign capabilities in dual-use technologies that will underpin Canada’s security, the guidance is intended to support universities in strengthening research security practices while continuing to enable secure international collaboration.
Developed by Vice-Presidents of Research and dedicated research security teams at U15 universities, the guidance builds on the best practices that have been implemented at leading research universities, with the intention of supporting the broader research community. The guidance is intended to supplement existing work and ensure that researchers have the tools they need to conduct research that is as open as possible but as secure as necessary.
“Today’s updated guidance draws on the lessons and best practices that have been developed at leading research universities over recent years. Thanks to federal investments, U15 universities have significantly expanded resources, including dedicated research security teams. Our universities have the capacity to undertake sensitive research securely, including with defence partners”, said Robert Asselin, CEO of U15 Canada.
“Our universities remain committed to ensuring that Canadian research is secure from foreign threats and the publication of this guidance, drawing on the expertise at U15 universities, is intended to ensure that the entire academic community has access to best practices. We will continue to advance best practices and update this guidance as necessary”, added Mr. Asselin.
About U15 Canada
U15 Canada is an association of fifteen leading research universities across Canada. U15 Canada works to optimize research and innovation policies and programs that advance knowledge, develop highly-qualified leaders for all sectors, and mobilize knowledge for the benefit of all Canadians. In this way, U15 Canada seeks to help Canadian universities make a prosperous, sustainable and just future for all.
For further information, please contact:
James Hammond, Director of Public Affairs
james.hammond@u15.ca
613-715-4764
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