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Generative AI in science. How is scientific practice changing?

The research project investigates the impact of generative AI tools (genAI) on scientific practice and knowledge production.

Background

The discussion about the influence of generative AI systems (genAI), such as ChatGTP, on the scientific system and on the research practices of scientists has accompanied the technology since it was opened up to public use in 2022. In the meantime, numerous genAI tools have been established that aim to support the research process. Expectations of this new technology range from making scientists' everyday work more efficient to developing new research questions. Surveys show that these tools are being used in more and more scientific disciplines.

Nevertheless, no qualitative studies have yet been conducted on how genAI tools are integrated into the research process and knowledge production practices of scientists and what needs, opportunities and consequences this has for the production of scientific knowledge.

Methods and Objective

Therefore, this project analyses the effects of generative AI tools  on scientific practice. It aims to ask how genAI is integrated into the scientific practice of different disciplines, scientists and the organisations of the scientific system as well as what needs, opportunities and consequences this has for the production of scientific knowledge.

The research project therefore focusses firstly on the changes in the practical implementation of the research process, in particular on the required skills, the understanding of creativity and the handling of authenticity. Secondly, it examines how the use of genAI tools is enabled and regulated in scientific organizations, by third-party funding bodies and publishers as well as by the manufacturers of genAI tools.

A quantitative survey, focus groups and subsequent qualitative interviews in the form of process narratives will be used to empirically substantiate how the actual use in scientific practice presents itself beyond the discourses of user expectations and which opportunities, but also which organizational and regulatory requirements arise from this.

The project takes into account theoretical perspectives from technology research, information systems studies and digitization and organizational research by focusing on the interaction between social practices and technology.

In doing so, the project offers a view of the changes in the production process of scientific knowledge in different epistemic knowledge cultures.

Funded by: German Federal Ministry of Education and Research as part of the ‘Science and higher education research’ funding line

Duration: 2025-2027