Publications Restrictions

The University of Colorado Boulder is a state institution, nonprofit, and public university. The right to publish and ensure openness in academics and research is inherent to the university's mission. CU Boulder is committed to the fundamental value of academic freedom (Regent Law, Article 5). This commitment allows CU Boulder considerable regulatory latitude not afforded to commercial entities.

In keeping with this commitment, CU Boulder shall not accept restrictions on sponsored projects or publication, absent compelling reasons. Agreements which impose restrictions must be addressed to mitigate impact for students, postdocs, and faculty working on such projects. State law requires reporting the existence of agreements with external parties and receipt of associated funds.

An agreement that imposes restrictions on publication or participation is considered restricted research. These restrictions may be in addition to, or not related to, export control restrictions. The Academic Affairs Policy on Openness in Research provides definitions and protocols under which restricted research can be accepted.

The Research & Innovation Office manages the process to accept Restricted, Proprietary and Classified Research.