OPERATE
Our online tool to assess opportunities and risks in international research cooperation
OPERATE is our online tool for analysing international research collaborations in a structured and informed way. The name stands for “operational procedure to assess opportunities and risks of international STI cooperation”. OPERATE supports researchers in systematically evaluating opportunities and risks and making informed decisions, thus preventing unintended knowledge transfer and fostering secure and responsible cooperation.
What does OPERATE help you with?
We developed OPERATE as a tool to help assess the opportunities and risks of research collaborations. OPERATE highlights the scientific potential of a partnership while raising awareness of possible risks and encouraging critical reflection. Our tool supports you in moderating a structured dialogue within the research team to help you make informed decisions.
Why is OPERATE valuable for the research community?
How can international research cooperation be conducted securely? While ministries and security authorities tend to emphasise risks and urge caution, researchers tend to focus more on the benefits of international cooperation. OPERATE supports researchers in becoming active participants in a balanced and comprehensive assessment of opportunities and risks. It provides a safe space for systematic risk analysis and open exchange, offering a tool for making well-informed and evidence-based decisions.
Who is OPERATE designed for?
OPERATE is intended for those who carry responsibility in international research cooperation, namely scientific leaders, project managers, and decision-makers in universities and research institutions. It also helps raise awareness among researchers and administrative staff by highlighting potential risks and opportunities in international partnerships.
Make use of OPERATE!
You can use OPERATE free of charge – just register to get started. The tool is easy to use, and a concise guide is available to help you.
Become an Operator
OPERATE can only be used by registered users, called Operators. Operators are key personnel at higher education institutes, research centres or central agencies who plan, initiate and control individual assessments. Operators can use OPERATE free of charge.
If you want to become an Operator, please fill out the application form and send it to safeguarding-science@dlr.de.
Book us for an OPERATE assessment!
Would you like to assess your international research collaborations using OPERATE, but do not have the resources to do so by yourself? No problem: we also offer OPERATE as a full-service solution, from onboarding and assessment setup to a guided workshop and its documentation.