A new report led by the University of Bristol shows that generative AI (GenAI) is increasingly utilized by universities to improve the efficiency of The Research Excellence Framework (REF), which allocates around £2 billion annually in public funding for UK research. Despite its potential to save significant time and costs, widespread skepticism remains among academics regarding GenAI’s role in research assessment, with many expressing strong opposition. The report emphasizes the need for national oversight and robust governance to ensure equitable use of AI tools. It found that while some institutions are leveraging GenAI to streamline REF submissions and enhance research impact narratives, significant disparities exist in adoption across higher education institutions (HEIs). Recommendations include establishing institutional AI policies, ensuring staff training, and creating a shared AI platform to facilitate equitable access. Overall, the study highlights the evolving landscape of research assessment in the UK, urging collaborative, principle-based approaches to integrate GenAI responsibly.
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