There is a new Policy on Sensitive Technology Research and Affiliations of Concern (STRAC) that aims to enhance Canada’s research security by ensuring Federal grant applications (NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR and CFI) that involve conducting research that may advance a sensitive technology research area will not be funded if any of the researchers involved in activities supported by the grant are affiliated with, or in receipt of funding or in-kind support, from a university, research institute or laboratory connected to a military, national defence or state security entities of foreign state actors that pose a risk to Canada’s national security.
The policy includes two lists, both of which will be updated regularly to address evolving threats to Canada’s national security. The policy will come into effect in early 2024. Review further details and links to the lists here.
U of T has a dedicated Research Security Team within the Division of the Vice-President, Research and Innovation to provide support and information to the research community regarding developments relating to safeguarding research and developing research relationships and grant applications in alignment with best practices, guidelines, and requirements
Researchers who have questions or concerns are strongly encouraged to contact the Research Security Team. They are available to help the research community understand the application of this new government requirement and other existing research security requirements.
The University of Toronto continues to work closely with the Government of Canada and the Tri-Agencies and CFI to ensure that the needs of the research community are reflected in the implementation of this new policy.
