Research & Development
Digitalization in Research & Development: Opportunities and Security Requirements
The ongoing digitalization of research and development opens up enormous opportunities – from more efficient development processes and the use of AI and simulations to data-driven decisions for innovation and market leadership. Information technology is a key driver in this process, whether it be the networking of international research locations, digital collaboration between interdisciplinary teams, or the automated processing of highly sensitive research and project data.
A crucial step is the increasing integration of different systems and platforms – both in the area of classic IT infrastructure and in specialized solutions for simulation, data analysis, and laboratory automation. This networking increases speed, innovative strength, and competitiveness – but also brings new challenges in terms of IT security:
The diverse requirements of research IT must be brought together in a comprehensive security concept. While particularly sensitive systems such as prototype data, intellectual property, and confidential project results place the highest demands on confidentiality and integrity, traditional IT often focuses on flexibility, scalability, and collaboration.
Sources of danger in the research industry
Source: Bitkom-Umfrage via Reuters Brightdefense | EY/Fortinet (2023) | Get Safe & Sound | Enterprise Strategy Group report via IT Pro
IT security in research and development – challenges and areas for action
Research & Development – Innovation needs security
Research institutions, laboratories, universities, and high-tech companies work daily on pioneering innovations that shape technological progress, medical development, and the competitiveness of the economy and society. This generates highly sensitive data – from confidential intellectual property, prototypes, and development documents to clinical studies and research collaborations with international partners.
Added value for the industry
- Protection of intellectual property and research data
- Defense against targeted attacks and industrial espionage
- Compliance with regulatory requirements
- Secure and flexible collaboration across locations
- Reduced IT workload through automated processes and transparency
Why the industry is in focus
- High value of data: Patents, results, and research documents are direct targets of cybercrime and industrial espionage.
- State-sponsored attacks: R&D is strategically interesting for geopolitical actors.
- Digitally networked working methods: Research thrives on collaboration, which automatically increases the attack surface.
Challenges in everyday IT
- Heterogeneous IT landscapes: Modern analysis platforms encounter older laboratory equipment that can no longer be updated—a constant gateway for attacks.
- Collaboration & networks: International research projects, start-ups, and partners require secure yet flexible data exchange.
- High regulatory requirements: Data protection (GDPR), industry-specific standards (e.g., ISO 27001), and funding requirements demand documented, robust security measures – a high administrative burden.
- External access: Guest researchers or third-party providers need short-term access, which leads to risks in identity and rights management.
- Constant pressure on IT departments: Teams must keep research running, modernize systems, and simultaneously ward off security incidents – often with limited resources.
