SIP Talks
Research Security at the Silicon Austria Labs (SAL)
Christina Hirschl shares insight into SAL’s approach to the complex issue of ensuring research security and practical measures.
The presentation outlines Silicon Austria Labs’ (SAL) approach to research security, emphasizing the balance between scientific openness and safeguarding sensitive knowledge. Research security is defined as a comprehensive framework of measures to prevent misuse, espionage, and unauthorized access while ensuring compliance with ethical and legal standards. Key drivers include mitigating foreign interference, protecting critical technologies, and maintaining Austria’s and the EU’s technological sovereignty.
SAL’s strategy integrates IT security, HR protocols, GDPR compliance, export control, and AI governance, supported by a compliance board and whistleblower system. Practical measures include secure infrastructure, staff training, risk-based restrictions, and transparent collaboration policies. The presentation highlights national and international stakeholder roles, regulatory trends, and SAL’s commitment to proportionality, awareness, and shared responsibility to foster secure yet open research environments.