Faculty researchers encouraged to review updated federal research restrictions

The U.S. Department of War (Department of Defense) recently updated its Section 1286 list of foreign institutions and entities that the federal government has identified as presenting national security concerns. 

Effective in fiscal year 2026, Department of War funds may not be used for fundamental research involving collaboration with an entity on the Section 1286 list, including research conducted with individuals affiliated with a listed entity or using equipment from one. The restrictions apply to grants, contracts and other research assistance provided to institutions of higher education.

Section 1286 is one of several U.S. restricted-party lists that may limit or prohibit federally funded research collaborations. The National Science Foundation maintains a consolidated list of these restrictions for researchers and institutions.

Faculty engaged in research or scholarly collaborations with international institutions are encouraged to review the updated Section 1286 list, the full U.S. Prohibited Entity Lists cited by the Department of War and others on NSF’s consolidated list. Faculty should be mindful of these restrictions when considering current or future collaborations. Researchers also should continue to fully disclose affiliations and outside activities as required by University and sponsor policies. The primary ways to do this are through the Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form in Niner Research and during a proposal submission to a sponsor. 

Compliance is important because a restricted collaboration may affect not only an individual researcher’s eligibility for federal funding but also the University’s ability to receive federal research support more broadly.

UNC Charlotte is continuing to review the updated federal requirements and will provide additional guidance if changes are needed to University processes related to research, hiring or other activities. 

Questions regarding the changes can be directed to Angelica Martins, assistant vice chancellor and research integrity officer, at A.Martins@charlotte.edu.

Written by Christy Jackson