I am thrilled to share that I have been featured in a recent Nature article discussing the use of AI in research management. The article by Linda Nordling, titled “How research managers are using AI to get ahead,” delves into the transformative impact of AI tools in my work.
In the article, I raise the tendency of large language models like ChatGPT to produce content aimed at pleasing the user. This can lead to what’s known as ‘hallucination’. Meaning that AI generates convincing but ultimately fictitious or unrealistic content. This was notably evident when ChatGPT enthusiastically affirmed the call match of a proposal I was working on. But it backed its claims with non-existent references.
This experience has made me cautious about using AI for designing projects. While AI can significantly enhance efficiency and creativity, it’s crucial to remain critical of its output. A beautiful proposal might pass the reviewers. However, if it’s not grounded in reality, the project’s feasibility suffers.
The article also provides interesting highlights how other research managers globally are using AI. From drafting support letters to improving the readability of complex texts, AI is proving to be a versatile tool in our arsenal.
As we navigate this AI-augmented landscape, it’s essential to balance the efficiency and innovation AI offers. We need a critical, discerning approach to ensure the integrity and feasibility of our work.
I invite you to read the full article on Nature’s website and reflect on the evolving role of AI in research management.