Overview
On August 28, 2023, the President issued a letter external site (opens in a new window) to the Chancellors and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Director outlining a new comprehensive framework (herein referred to as “framework”) with three core requirements for any University of California (UC) international affiliations and agreements involving emerging technology and countries of concern. These new requirements are intended to proactively protect our intellectual property, strengthen our collaborations, and preserve the reputation of our research enterprise.
What international activities require "Enhanced Review and Approval" by UCOP?
International affiliations and agreements (which can include engagements, collaborations, etc.) that are (i) taken at the institutional level and (ii) involve countries of concern and emerging technology require Enhanced Review and Approval by UCOP.
Institutional vs. Individual Engagements
For the purposes of the enhanced review process, international Engagements that are undertaken by or on behalf of the University, a location, or any of its components are considered to be at the "Institutional Level."
What is a "Country of Concern"?
For purposes of the enhanced review process, countries of concern include the following:
- China
- Iran
- North Korea
- Russia
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
What is Emerging Technology?
The term Emerging Technology is used broadly to mean different specific technology areas for various purposes. For tpurposes of the enhanced review process, Emerging Technology means a specific but evolving list of technology areas under Sec. 1758 of the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA) external site (opens in a new window) . Technology areas considered Emerging Technology include:
- Biotechnology (Note: currently, the government has identified the following areas of biotechnology as emerging technology: Nanobiology, synthetic biology, genomic and genetic engineering, and neurotech)
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Positioning and navigational technology
- Microelectronics or Semiconductors
- Advanced computing
- Data analytics technology
- Quantum information and sensing
- Additive manufacturing
- Robotics and autonomous systems
- Brain-computer interfaces
- Hypersonics
UCOP's Decision Tree can be used to assist with determining whether an affiliation is subject to the Enhanced Review and Approval process.
What Must I do as a UCSF employee?
Please contact ResearchSecurity@ucsf.edu external site (opens in a new window) prior to engaging in a collaboration that satisfies the elements of the Decision Tree above.