Fundamental Research Exclusion

The term Fundamental Research means basic and applied research in science and engineering, the results of which ordinarily are published and shared broadly within the scientific community, as distinguished from proprietary research and from industrial development, design, production, and product utilization, the results of which ordinarily are restricted for proprietary or national security reasons.

The Fundamental Research Exclusion applies only to the dissemination of research data and information, not to the transmission of material goods.

 

The Fundamental Research Exclusion is DESTROYED IF:

The university accepts any contract clause that

· Forbids the participation of foreign persons

· Gives the sponsor a right to approve publications resulting from the research; or

· Otherwise operates to restrict participation in research and/or access to and disclosure of research results.

 
“Side deals” between a PI and Sponsor to comply with such requirements even though not stated in the research contract may destroy the fundamental research exclusion and expose both the PI and the Institute to penalties for export control violations and may also violate university policies on openness in research.

MIT Office of Sponsored Programs