Clemson University is committed to its role as a leader in world-class research. In accordance with the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 regarding Foreign Talent Recruitment Programs, as well as supporting adherence to federal and state regulations and University policies, the University has developed a newly released Foreign Talent Recruitment Programs (FTRP) Policy.
Foreign talent recruitment programs (FTRPs) are initiatives organized or funded by foreign governments or entities to attract researchers and professionals, often in science and technology fields. These programs can offer various incentives such as:
- research funding
- honorific titles
- career advancement opportunities
- financial compensation
However, participation in some of these programs can create conflicts of interest and/or commitment or involve activities that are unethical or even illegal (malign FTRPs), which can threaten U.S. national and economic security through the theft or diversion of intellectual property. A malign FTRP is any activity that includes compensation funded by a foreign country for performing one or more problematic obligations or activities; or a program sponsored by a foreign country of concern, an entity based in a foreign country of concern, listed academic institution, or foreign talent recruitment program. More information on malign FTRPs can be found in the OSTP’s National Security Presidential Memorandum-33 implementation guidance.
This FTRP policy applies to Clemson University research personnel, which includes employees, student workers, contractors, and affiliates. Research personnel are required to disclose participation in any FTRP through the University’s Conflict of Interest Disclosure system, are not allowed to participate in malign FTRP and must comply with all sponsor policies and certifications regarding FTRP.
If you are unsure whether a program is a FTRP that must be disclosed and/or a prohibited malign FTRP, contact the Office of Export Compliance and Research Security.
The FTRP policy also includes roles and responsibilities for the University and the Office of Export Compliance and Research Security, as well as recourse for noncompliance.
Contact the Office of Export Compliance and Research Security at exportcontrol@clemson.edu with any questions.