Research Security Training
What is Research Security Training (RST)?
Research Security Training (RST) is a mandatory program to safeguard the integrity of federally funded research. It addresses critical topics, including foreign interference, conflicts of interest, export controls, cybersecurity, disclosure of external affiliations, and best practices for managing risks in international collaborations.
Who Must Complete the Training?
- Senior / Key Personnel on federally-funded proposals or contracts/awards requiring certification.
Which Sponsors Require it?
As of Fall 2025, the following federal entities require RST:
- National Science Foundation (NSF)
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Other agencies (for example, DOD, NASA) may also adopt these requirements.
When Must the Training Be Completed?
- Before proposal submission: All senior/key personnel must complete RST within 12 months prior to the proposal deadline. Proposals will not be submitted if this requirement is unmet.
- During the award period: Covered individuals must renew certification annually throughout the funding period.
Why Is RST Required?
- To comply with congressional mandates and executive orders, including CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33, issued 2021). These policies reflect a bipartisan commitment to safeguarding federally funded research from risks such as:
- Malign foreign interference and intellectual property theft
- Cybersecurity threats and misuse of sensitive or controlled data.
- Federal agencies require this training to ensure that all funded research activities are conducted with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and protection from external threats.
How Do I Fulfill the Research Security Training (RST) Requirement?
Complete the one-hour CITI Research Security Training (Combined) module via WKU’s CITI Training platform. Upon completion, you’ll receive a PDF certificate verifying compliance for proposal submissions and annual renewals.
Questions & Support
For assistance with:
- Accessing or enrolling in the course
- Verifying your certificate
- Understanding whether you qualify as senior/key personnel
Contact the Office of Research Integrity or Sponsored Programs.
How to Add the Course in CITI
Log in to CITI Training and under the “My Courses” tab, click “View Courses” to the right of Western Kentucky University.
- If “Research Security Training (Combined)” is not in your active or ready‑to‑start courses:
a. Scroll to the bottom, click “Add a Course” under “Learner Tools for Western Kentucky University.”
b. On the “Select Curriculum” page, answer “No” to screening questions, then click Next.
c. Select “I want to complete or I am required to complete a Research Security training course”. Click Next.
d. Then choose “Research Security Training (Combined Course): A condensed single‑module course based on the NSF’s Research Security Training.” Click Next.
e. Finally, click “Start Now” to begin the course.
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