U.S. government export control regulations are designed to protect the national security, economic security, and foreign policy interests of the United States. It is important that University faculty, staff, and students be familiar with the regulations in order to ensure that the University remains in compliance with the regulations while continuing to succeed in its teaching and research activities.
Princeton University is committed to complying with all United States export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) administered by the Department of Commerce, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) administered by the Department of State, and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations administered by the Department of the Treasury.
As a premier research university in the United States, Princeton University supports the free dissemination and open publication of research results. As a result, Princeton University research projects qualify for the Fundamental Research Exclusion to export control regulations. Although academic research activities at the University qualify for the Fundamental Research Exclusion and therefore are not subject to export control regulations, there are certain situations in which the export of tangible items, technical and scientific data, or software is either prohibited by law or requires an export license or other government approval.
Penalties for violations of export control regulations vary and may include loss of export privileges, damage to the individual’s or University’s reputation, criminal and/or civil penalties. All persons on Princeton’s campus, whether researchers or otherwise, are responsible for recognizing whether the technology or equipment involved in their work might be export controlled. They are also responsible for complying with all applicable export control regulations. The Office of Research and Project Administration (ORPA) and the Office of the General Counsel are available to assist researchers in their compliance efforts.
Export controls can apply to anyone. As such, it is the responsibility of each member of the University community to ensure compliance with regulations, including seeking an export license when required. That being said, the majority of information shared with students and research collaborators is not subject to export control regulations.
Research Concerns
As a researcher, you may need to use export controlled equipment or technology in a lab setting. You may also need to share export controlled technical information or data with non-U.S. persons on your team. If you do so without fully understanding the constraints of these laws and regulations, there could be serious consequences. Please refer to the Export Control Information for Princeton University Researchers document found on this page for more information.
Deemed Exports
Export control issues are of particular concern when non-U.S. persons participate in research projects. A deemed export could occur by providing controlled technology to visiting faculty, research assistants, and students. Learn more about deemed exports.
Shipments
The majority of Princeton’s international shipments do not require an export license. However, it is important to understand when they apply. Learn more about exports and imports.