Collin Rich has been named chief research security officer at Indiana University, effective Dec. 13.

He will lead the IU Research Security Office, which addresses the security risks posed to the research environment at Indiana University and helps researchers protect themselves, their research data and methodologies, publication rights, and intellectual property. The office also leads IU’s compliance efforts with a growing field of government rules and regulations in the area of research security.

Rich joins IU from The University of Alabama, where he leads the Office for Research Security and Export Control.

“Collin is a proven leader in developing and implementing strategic plans to protect research from potential threats — a vital need as our world faces a growing variety of complex security issues,” said Russell Mumper, IU vice president for research. “His wealth of knowledge and experience setting policies and priorities for all research security initiatives will be a key asset to IU researchers driving innovation and transformative research in our state, in our country and around the globe as part of the IU 2030 strategic plan.”

Rich will work with university leaders responsible for public safety and compliance, as well as state and federal oversight agencies, to ensure the security of IU research, intellectual property and associated systems. He and the entire Research Security Office team will continue working with researchers to ensure adequate safeguards are in place.

“I’m excited to join Indiana University, a world-class institution known for groundbreaking discoveries and a deep commitment to community-engaged research,” Rich said. “I look forward to working with faculty to provide guidance and assistance to help protect and drive the innovation and excellence of IU’s researchers. We will strive to promote a secure research environment, all while maintaining an emphasis on open scientific and scholarly collaboration with a global perspective.”

During his career at The University of Alabama, Rich led contracting efforts in support of the university’s research mission, launched the university’s first campus-wide export control compliance program, and spearheaded the process to enable university faculty and staff to engage in controlled research that serves the needs of the United States government.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from The University of Alabama and a juris doctor from The University of Alabama School of Law.