Update
Updated guidance on the use of artificial intelligence in the development and review of research funding applications
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 funding applications.
Key updates include reference to institutionally procured and deployed generative AI tools not being permitted for use by reviewers in carrying out their reviewer responsibilities. Additionally, the Frequently Asked Questions: Use of Artificial Intelligence in the development and review of research funding applications page has been reformatted to be more reader-friendly by having an applicant and reviewer section to better understand where generative AI use is, and is not, permitted.
The updated guidance underscores the Agencies’ commitment to research integrity, transparency, and confidentiality emphasizing the roles and responsibilities applicants and reviewers have in relation to generative AI and applying for federal research funding.