Policy for the author and reviewer in using AI
- The authors and reviewers must acknowledge the contributions, if any, of AI tools to their work. However, AI tools cannot be considered as authors or co-authors in research publications.
- The authors and reviewers must ensure compliance with the guidelines of their target publications.
- The authors should ensure that they understand the funding agencies’ standards and criteria for using AI in grant applications and peer reviews.
- The authors must prioritise and protect the privacy and security of research data when processing or analysing such data. They must adhere to all relevant data privacy laws, regulations, and institutional guidelines. Researchers must ensure that they understand the risks associated with using AI tools, especially those concerning data storage, sharing, and retention.
- The author is the ultimate person responsible and accountable for the content of research outputs (and grant proposals), including content generated or supported by AI.
- AI outputs may be inaccurate or misleading. It is important to verify any information from AI tools with trusted sources before using it in research. The authors should also keep detailed records of how they use AI tools in their research. Proper record keeping (including the name and version of the AI tool used, the date, and the task performed) is vital for defending against any allegations of misuse and for protecting the researchers.
- The authors should acknowledge the contributions of AI tools to their research outputs when appropriate. They should also document the use of AI to ensure transparency (bearing in mind the importance of proper record keeping, as stated above). As more AI tools are developed, specifying the use of AI in the methodology description will become integral to research studies.
- The authors must not claim AI-generated results as their original work. They should refrain from plagiarising or infringing on others’ intellectual property rights when using AI tools. Such tools may also use or generate content that violates copyright laws. They should consider specific factors when using AI tools for research that may be eligible for patent application, and must carefully evaluate the intellectual property implications of using AI tools.
