Adapting Research Policy to AI
The European Commission has published an updated version of the European Research Area (ERA) Living Guidelines on the responsible use of generative AI in research. The revision responds to the rapid development of AI tools and their growing use across scientific work, from literature analysis and data interpretation to drafting, project management, and communication.
Keeping Integrity at the Centre
The guidelines remain non-binding, but provide practical recommendations for researchers, research organisations, and funding bodies. They emphasise that researchers remain fully responsible for scientific outputs produced with AI support, and that AI systems should not be listed as authors or co-authors. Transparency, human oversight, protection of confidential data, respect for intellectual property, and awareness of bias, hallucinations, and inaccuracies are central to the updated guidance.
New Risks and Practical Guidance
The update also addresses emerging risks, including the use of AI by third parties during meetings or information management, as well as “hidden prompts” embedded in documents to influence AI-generated outputs. Funding organisations are encouraged to ensure that AI does not compromise fairness, confidentiality, or the evaluation of scientific content.
Why It Matters for Chemistry
For chemistry, responsible AI use is particularly important. AI is increasingly applied in molecular modelling, materials discovery, analytical chemistry, toxicology, and data-intensive research. Clear guidance can help researchers benefit from these tools while safeguarding scientific reliability and trust.
As AI becomes embedded in research practice, the ERA guidelines signal a broader policy direction: Europe aims to support innovation while ensuring that the values underpinning scientific excellence – integrity, transparency, and accountability – remain firmly in place.
