UK universities have been urged to review research partnerships involving a Chinese organisation after MI5 raised concerns about projects covering artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and covert communications.

MI5 issued a rare public Espionage Alert on 30 September concerning the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI). The security service said more than 100 UK-linked academics had contributed to research projects funded through the organisation.

The research areas identified by MI5 include AI, cybersecurity, covert communications systems and steganography. The agency said some academics may have participated without knowing the ultimate source of funding.

MI5 has advised academic institutions to immediately review ongoing or planned collaboration with CGTRI and urged researchers working with Chinese institutions to establish the ultimate source of research funding.

The alert also highlights potential legal implications under the National Security Act 2023 for continued involvement in research ultimately funded by CGTRI. MI5 advised institutions or individuals continuing such work to seek independent legal advice.

China’s embassy in London rejected the allegations, describing them as unfounded and saying UK-China academic cooperation should not be undermined.

The warning puts research security, AI development and international technology collaboration under renewed scrutiny as UK universities expand partnerships in advanced technology fields.