Guidelines on the responsible use of generative AI in research developed by the European Research Area Forum

The Commission, together with the European Research Area countries and stakeholders, has put forward a set of guidelines to support the European research community in their responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (AI).

With the rapid spread of the use of this technology in all domains including in science, these recommendations address key opportunities and challenges. Building on the principles of research integrity, they offer guidance to researchers, research organisations, and research funders to ensure a coherent approach across Europe. The principles framing the new guidelines are based on existing frameworks such as the European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity and the guidelines on trustworthy AI.

AI is transforming research, making scientific work more efficient and accelerating discovery. While generative AI tools offer speed and convenience in producing text, images and code, researchers must also be mindful of the technology’s limitations, including plagiarism, revealing sensitive information, or inherent biases in the models.

Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President said:

We are committed to innovation of AI and innovation with AI. And we will do our best to build a thriving AI ecosystem in Europe. With these guidelines, we encourage the research community to use generative AI to help supercharge European science and its applications to the benefit of society and for all of us.

Iliana Ivanova, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth said:

Generative AI can hugely boost research, but its use demands transparency and responsibility. These guidelines aim to uphold scientific integrity and preserve public trust in science amidst rapid technological advancements. I call on the scientific community to join us in turning these guidelines into the reference for European research.

Key takeaways from the guidelines include:

• Researchers refrain from using generative AI tools in sensitive activities such as peer reviews or evaluations and use generative AI respecting privacy, confidentiality, and intellectual property rights.
• Research organisations should facilitate the responsible use of generative AI and actively monitor how these tools are developed and used within their organisations.
• Funding organisations should support applicants in using generative AI transparently

As generative AI is constantly evolving, these guidelines will be updated with regular feedback from the scientific community and stakeholders.

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Background

The widespread uptake of generative AI has triggered numerous institutional responses. While the EU is taking the global lead with its AI Act regulating AI products, many academic institutions and organisations across Europe have been developing guidelines on the use generative AI. The goal of the ERA Forum representatives, including Member States, Horizon Europe associated countries, and other research and innovation stakeholders, was to develop a guidance that could bring consistency across countries and research organisations.

More information

Factsheet

Guidelines

Artificial Intelligence in Science

Press contact:

EC Spokesperson for Research, Science and Innovation