For some, classified research doesn’t fly

Debate relaunched, could affect school's dealings with state aerospace industry

Kansas University isn’t doing what it can to support the state’s aerospace industry, KU engineering professor Rick Hale says.

And whether KU can do more in the future is up for debate.

The issue of classified research has arisen again.

KU’s University Council passed a measure during the last school year loosening the rules on classified research, which has outside restrictions on how it’s used and given to the public. But the measure was withdrawn after some faculty voiced concerns.

KU’s Faculty Executive Committee met Tuesday to relaunch the debate. The issue is expected to come up for a new vote sometime this year.

It’s a debate that has KU faculty concerned about “academic freedom” and “academic integrity.”

Among the suggested policy changes last spring was the addition of a statement that KU recognizes there are instances when research may involve sensitive areas where making the information immediately public isn’t in the best interest of society.

The revised policy also included a change in how KU deals with completely classified research, such as the type that is usually restricted for national security reasons. And there were other changes.

Hale said KU’s current policies greatly restrict his ability to conduct certain types of research. He said he can do very little research for industry and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Such research projects often involve classified technology or information. And KU’s policy bars faculty from such projects.

Hale said KU simply can’t contribute to the aerospace industry, one of the state’s top industries.

But others, including public administration associate professor Charles Epp, said loosening the university’s policies put KU on a slippery slope toward becoming a pawn for industry and acting like a private consulting firm.

Epp said some faculty may not get to do certain research if KU keeps a close rein on classified research, but that might be necessary for the university to maintain its academic integrity.

“Some people’s freedom will be restricted in the interest of academic principles,” he said.

Academic freedom is at issue here, Hale said.

“We say we want academic freedom, but only for those who follow this model,” he said. “I believe in academic freedom for all.”

Jim Roberts, vice provost for research, said he hopes the debate includes a look at each specific point in the broad issue.

“You’re really talking about a lot of issues when you’re talking about classified research,” he said.