Federal Research Security Training Requirements 

Federal funding agencies have implemented new training requirements for researchers and personnel working on federally sponsored projects. These mandatory trainings focus on research security and responsible conduct to ensure compliance with federal regulations and protect the integrity of U.S. research.

Who This Affects: All principal investigators, senior/key personnel, and team members participating in federally funded research projects must complete specific research security and related trainings based on their funding source and role.

Why This Matters: Completion of required trainings is mandatory for:

• Proposal submission eligibility
• Award activation and continuation
• Maintaining compliance with federal sponsor requirements
• Protecting research integrity and national security interests
• University compliance with National Security Presidential Memorandum-33 (NSPM-33), which requires institutions of higher education with more than $50 million annual federal R&D funding to operate a comprehensive research security program, which includes Research Security Training as a primary component
• The CHIPS and Science Act requires that covered individuals involved in federally funded research complete research security training to enhance protections against security threats

Important Notes:

• Training requirements vary by agency and may change—check this page regularly for updates
• Most trainings are available through BuckeyeLearn, with RCR training delivered via CITI
• Some requirements apply before proposal submission, so plan accordingly
• Research teams should verify which trainings apply based on all active and pending funding sources

Action Required: Review the requirements below to identify which trainings apply to you and your team. Contact your department's research administrator or the Office of Sponsored Programs if you have questions about specific requirements or need assistance with training enrollment.

Updated: October 17, 2025