The University of Tübingen has a broad international presence and therefore sometimes participates in foreign trade, which is subject to export control regulations. The University, researchers and administration come under export control regulations in numerous fields of activity. These include in particular:
international research collaborations
travel for work
the export of scientific equipment, materials or software
the development of new technologies
knowledge and data transfers
publications
cooperation with international researchers, e.g. visiting academics
the hiring of staff.
All these activities may be subject to approval; under certain conditions they may even be prohibited. In this context, export controls do not seek to restrict the freedom of academia and research or of foreign trade. Rather, the provisions are intended to prevent the misuse of sensitive research assets and know-how to the point of endangering national security. Critical individual cases must therefore be identified so as not to violate the relevant laws.
