Netanyahu may have leaked US secrets but it appears I cannot talk about science I have not published, especially if I have an audience. According to my University, fundamental physics and chemistry is now subject to ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and the EAR (Export Administration Regulations). So can I go abroad to Europe and talk about my research ? Probably not.
My University has invented a new ‘International Travel Checklist’ – a form to be filled out in case of foreign travel – to meet and address the threat that I might break some rule of the ITAR regulations. Some of my answers to the questions on this new form are apparently going to raise concern with the Export Control Administration that I am trading information with enemy states.
One question is: “Will you be taking any information or technology that is not widely available in the public domain, is classified, or is subject to export control regulations? (Including materials in print or electronic versions)?” My answer here is (most times) going to be “yes” because I usually go abroad to talk to collaborators or talk about unpublished research. So not widely available. If there was any doubt, there is another question that goes as: “If you will be presenting at a conference or meeting, will you be presenting information that is not available in the public domain or fundamental research?” The form goes on to explain that I will be forgiven, but only if the content of my talks and discussions is material of “......... general scientific, mathematical or engineering principles commonly taught in universities.” Sound reasonable? Until it is published, my research is not widely available in the public domain and it is going to be some time before my research is part of the regular curriculum.
Another questions being asked: “Will you be taking any materials or equipment with you? (Including a laptop computer, software, scientific equipment, etc.)”. Yes, I think I would like to travel with my laptop. And yes, I have some graphics and word processing software on my computer.
Then there is the question: “Do you know or have any reason to believe that the information you will be sharing or the activities you will engage in while traveling will have a military use or will provide a military service?” Am I allowed to say I have no idea ?