H&S Export Control Information

Understanding Export Controls at Stanford

Stanford University is committed to the free exchange of ideas and information. However, faculty, researchers, and staff must be aware that U.S. export control laws may apply to certain activities, especially involving international collaborators, travel, sharing of data, and shipments.

Export controls are federal laws that regulate the transfer of certain information, technologies, and commodities for national security and foreign policy reasons. These regulations include:

The Export Administration Regulations (EAR), administered by the Department of Commerce
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), administered by the Department of State
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions programs, administered by the Department of the Treasury

While most Stanford activities qualify for exemptions such as the "fundamental research exclusion," there are situations where export control compliance is required.

Personal and Institutional Liability

It is important to understand that failure to comply with export control regulations can result in significant consequences, not only for the university, but also for individual faculty and staff. Penalties for export control violations may include substantial fines, loss of research funding, and potential civil or criminal prosecution. Individuals personally involved in non-compliant activities may be held accountable, even when acting on behalf of the institution. By following Stanford’s export control policies and seeking guidance when needed, you help protect both yourself and the university from legal, financial, and reputational risks.

Common Scenarios Where Export Controls May Apply:

Research involving proprietary, restricted, or export-controlled technologies not intended for broad publication
International collaborations with organizations or individuals from sanctioned countries or restricted organizations/entities.
Shipping equipment, materials, or software internationally
Working with foreign nationals on controlled projects
International travel involving technical data, software, or research equipment

Tips for Faculty

Faculty should be aware of the following export control considerations in their day-to-day research and international activities:

Open Research: Stanford's policy requires research to remain free of publication restrictions and access restrictions based on nationality or citizenship. Research with contractual clauses limiting publication, participation, or access can affect export control protections.
International Collaborations: Sharing certain technical data or software with foreign nationals, even within the U.S., may require a license.
Travel: Use the Stanford Travel Loaner program to borrow secure laptops and avoid carrying controlled data when traveling internationally. Carrying controlled items such as encrypted laptops or specialized research data may require a license.
Shipping Materials: Sending research materials, equipment, or data outside the U.S. may require review and approval. The Stanford One Time NLR Certification Form should be completed before carrying out an export of tangible items.
Receiving Materials: Receiving third party export controlled technology or hardware may also require review and approval.
Restricted Party Screenings: Use Visual Compliance to screen collaborators, organizations, or countries for restricted party status.

Resources

For questions or assistance, please contact Derek Brown, H&S Conflict of Interest and Commitment and Export Control Manager, visit the Stanford Export Controls Overview website, or contact Brandon Barnhill, Stanford University Export Control Director in the Stanford Export Controls Office.