Export Controls Policy

Export controls, which govern international commerce and safeguard national security, have been a part of United States law since the 1940s. They have evolved over the past several decades into a sophisticated set of regulatory tools with broad application. As such, they can impact a range of activities, from shipping items overseas to transferring technical data to non-U.S. persons on campus.  

Many activities at Princeton are not subject to export controls because Princeton supports the free publication of research results. In addition, the University does not allow research sponsors to exclude individuals from participating. As a result, our research generally qualifies for the Fundamental Research Exclusion to export control regulations. However, even when the results of a research project are excluded, the export of any equipment developed during that project may still require an export license.

Policy and Overview

Do You Need To Call the Export Control Office?

  • Will you be shipping equipment or materials outside of the U.S.?
  • Does your research agreement prevent you from disclosing information generated during the course of the project or limit participation by foreign persons?
  • Are you receiving confidential information that may be subject to export control regulations from a third party?
  • Am I traveling to, making payments to, or working with persons from a sanctioned country?
  • Will foreign persons in my group have access to export-controlled technology (i.e. a deemed export?)

If you answered YES or UNSURE to any of these questions, please call John Jenkins 609-258-3819 or Brian Collins 609-258-1544 or email [email protected] for assistance.