Fundamental Research Exclusion

Fundamental research is defined as basic and applied research in science and engineering, the results of which are ordinarily published and shared broadly within the scientific community. Much of the research that is conducted at Georgetown University is considered fundamental research and qualifies for the fundamental research exclusion to export control laws; however, this exclusion does not apply to all research, and in some cases, may not apply to federally funded research. If the fundamental research exclusion does not apply to a project, a license may be needed before releasing any export-controlled technology, source code or other research data. 

If you plan to conduct research in science and/or engineering, please reach out to the university’s Export Control Office at exportcontrol@georgetown.edu for assistance in determining if your research qualifies for the fundamental research exclusion.

If the project is not eligible for the fundamental research exclusion, a technology control plan may be developed to ensure proper management of controlled technology and research data. In addition, potential research sponsors, suppliers/vendors, subrecipients and visiting researchers are screened to ensure that they do not appear on certain U.S. Government and international watch lists.