Seeking Research Security Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Development and Delivery of Research Security Workshops for University Leadership in Italy

On behalf of the United States Department of State, Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation, Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction (ACN/CTR), CRDF Global is seeking a Research Security Subject Matter Expert (SME) with demonstrated expertise in protecting sensitive and dual-use research, mitigating risks associated with international collaboration, and delivering training for academic leadership and research administration audiences.

The selected SME will contribute to the development and delivery of three research security workshops to be held in Turin and additional cities such as Rome, Milan, or Naples (to be conducted during a single trip in late May or June 2026). Through practical and action-oriented case studies, the workshops will explore dual-use risks in advanced and emerging technologies, identify strategies to mitigate them, and support action planning. Each workshop will follow a one-and-a-half-day format. The first day will focus on practical content delivery and dialogue facilitation, including case-based learning and interactive exercises designed to explore realistic research situations involving dual-use technologies and international collaboration. The second half day will convene university rectors and senior institutional leadership for a strategic, informal discussion focused on research governance, institutional responsibilities, and potential next steps for strengthening research security practices within Italian universities.