The use of generative artificial intelligence in the development and review of research proposals

Updated Guidance on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Development and Review of Research Grant Proposals

To better reflect the evolving role and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in research, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), and the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) ("the Agencies") have updated the Guidance on the use of AI in the development and review of research grant proposals.

Key revisions include an update regarding disclosure requirements in research proposals, and a clarification that the use of online tools is not permitted by reviewers in the evaluation process. These adjustments aim to increase clarity and lower the administrative burden faced by researchers, while acknowledging the increased complexity of monitoring and enforcing detailed AI disclosures.

The updated guidance underscores the Agencies’ commitment to research integrity and transparency, emphasizing that researchers must continue to appropriately acknowledge and reference original sources uncovered, or significantly influenced, by AI tools.

Researchers are encouraged to consult our new Frequently Asked Questions: Use of AI in the development and review of research grant proposals page to help them navigate the responsible use of AI and adopt best practices when developing research proposals.