Dear Principal Investigators,
What is the requirement?
Within the 12 months preceding a proposal submission date, senior and key personnel must complete research security training. The training must be completed prior to proposal submission. The University’s Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP) is required to certify at proposal submission that all pertinent personnel have completed the training.
Which agencies require research security training?
- Department of Energy: Implemented May 1, 2025
- NSF: In effect for proposals submitted on or after Oct. 10, 2025
- NIH: In effect for proposals submitted on or after Oct. 1, 2025
Other sponsors, including the Department of Defense, are expected to implement this requirement within the next 12 months. All researchers who anticipate serving as PI, CO-I or key personnel on an upcoming federal proposal are encouraged to complete the research security training early to avoid delays in proposal submission or award acceptance.
What training should I take?
UT Austin’s research security training module is available in UT Learn and takes approximately one hour to complete. UT adopted the research security training from the SECURE Center, which consolidates four modules provided by the NSF. It is important to complete UT’s module so your training can be tracked and verified. Please note the following:
- Training should be completed at least 24 hours before the proposal submission deadline so that OSP can confirm completion.
- Senior and key personnel from external collaborating institutions are also required to complete the training. Documentation verifying completion of the training for each individual must be obtained from their respective institution and shared with OSP prior to proposal submission.
For questions about the training requirement or access, contact the UT Research Security Office at sas@austin.utexas.edu.
