New Guidelines on the Responsible Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

In collaboration with European Research Area countries and stakeholders, the European Commission, has proposed a set of guidelines aimed at supporting the European research community in the responsible utilisation of generative artificial intelligence (AI).

Given how rapidly this technology is being used across all fields, including research, these recommendations address key opportunities and challenges. Drawing upon the foundations of research integrity, they provide guidance to researchers, research organisations, and funders to ensure a unified approach throughout Europe. The principles underpinning the new guidelines are rooted in established frameworks like the European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity and guidelines on trustworthy AI.

Important takeaways from the guidelines are as follows:

• Researchers are encouraged to avoid employing generative AI tools in sensitive tasks such as peer reviews or evaluations. When using generative AI, it's important to prioritise privacy, confidentiality, and intellectual property rights.
• Research organisations should play a role in promoting the responsible use of generative AI and should actively oversee the development and deployment of these tools within their institutions.
• Funding organisations should support applicants in using generative AI in a transparent manner.

Since generative AI continues to evolve, these guidelines will undergo regular updates based on feedback from the scientific community and stakeholders.