Trusted Research Newsletter

April 2026

Welcome to the April edition of the Trusted Research Newsletter. We hope you enjoyed the Easter break.

Physically Exported Goods

As a reminder to all staff who export physical goods, if you are using the “OGEL: Export of Dual-Use items to EU member States” or GEA 001 then you need to include a note stating either:

“These items are being exported under the OGEL (Export of Dual-use items to EU Members States)” or "GEA 001"; or

The SPIRE reference (in the form ‘GBOGE 20XX/XXXXX’) of the exporter’s registration in respect of this licence, which can be obtained from RG&C.

You must also enter the licence reference number in the form ‘GBOGE 20XX/XXXXX’ on the UK customs declarations system.

RG&C are happy to offer advice and/or training to departments as required.

Trusted Research Master

The RG&C team recently ran a puzzle room event for Research Culture Week called Trusted Research Master. Inspired by the TV show Taskmaster and a love of escape rooms and puzzles that require lateral thinking, the puzzle room challenged participants to break into a fictional academic’s briefcase and assess the potential risks faced by said academic at an overseas conference. Using ciphers, tactile puzzles, audio clues and QR codes, RG&C challenged the participants to get their ‘ducks in a row’.

The session was described by participants as both fun and informative.

We’re happy to offer this session to any department.

Please contact ResearchCompliance@warwick.ac.uk to discuss details.

Travel Update & Advice

Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the RG&C team recommend that you check both the updates on the FCDO website and the University before booking travel to this area.

If you have any current travellers within your department that require urgent assistance with travel as a direct result of the current conflict in the Middle East please quote the term “Middle East” in any correspondence with Key Travel (our Travel Management company). This will enable them to process any requests as a priority in line with pre-agreed procurement arrangements.

Introducing HERSA

The Higher Education Research Security Association (HERSA), formally known as HEECA, has rebranded. The security environment has evolved therefore the role of the association has extended beyond export controls to span the broader research and economic security agenda. The website contains excellent resources, and the e-training is strongly recommended for researchers working with overseas collaborators.

RG&C Reminders