Responsible use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in the research process
The guidelines are based on guidelines of the European Research Area Forum.
These guidelines focus on one particular type of AI used in the research process: generative AI. The goal of these guidelines is to prevent misuse and ensure that generative AI plays a positive role as part of research practices.
The key principles for the responsible use of generative AI in research are:
• Reliability in ensuring the quality of research, reflected in the design, methodology, analysis and use of resources. This includes aspects related to verifying and reproducing the information produced by the AI for research. It also involves being aware of possible equality and non-discrimination issues in relation to bias and inaccuracies.
• Honesty in developing, carrying out, reviewing, reporting and communicating on research transparently, fairly, thoroughly and impartially. This principle includes disclosing that generative AI has been used.
• Respect for colleagues, research participants, research subjects, society, ecosystems, cultural heritage and the environment. Responsible use of generative AI should consider the limitations of the technology, its environmental impact16 and its societal effects (bias, diversity, non-discrimination, fairness and prevention of harm). This includes the proper management of information, respect for privacy, confidentiality and intellectual property rights, and proper citation.
• Accountability for the research from idea to publication, for its management and organisation, for training, supervision and mentoring, and for its wider societal impacts. This includes responsibility for all output that a researcher produces, underpinned by the notion of human agency and oversight.
