The U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) restricts transactions with embargoed and sanctioned countries, including certain academic collaborations and exchange of research materials and equipment. These OFAC regulations are complex and violations may result in severe financial penalties.
The most comprehensive controls apply to Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria and Crimea Region of the Ukraine. Travel to these areas, as well as research-related activity and academic collaborations (whether funded or unfunded), is tightly regulated and generally requires an OFAC export license.
Ohio State researchers must consult with ERIK’s Secure Research team prior to engagement with these countries when:
- traveling on behalf of Ohio State (regardless of nationality or passport used);
- considering participation in an academic collaboration;
- providing a service;
- engaging with any persons or entities within those countries;
- attending a conference (in person or online); and/or
- exchanging research materials, data or equipment.
International collaboration is an important part of research at universities, and the Secure Research team, as the lead for Ohio State’s export control compliance, can help. Visit the Export Controls page of the ERIK website for more information or contact Secure Research team at exportcontrol@osu.edu with specific questions.
More information on the OAFC’s sanctions programs and country information can be found on the agency’s website.