Infrastructures and Skills on the Sector’s AI-for-Science Wish List
The European Commission is preparing a new strategy to support the use of artificial intelligence across all scientific disciplines. Expected in the third quarter of the year, this strategy aims to make AI tools more accessible to researchers, boost interdisciplinary collaboration, and help attract and retain skilled talent.
Following a consultation that received 734 responses, key priorities have emerged to guide the strategy’s development. These inputs come from a broad range of stakeholders across Europe and beyond, reflecting the diverse needs of the science community.
Key Priorities Identified
- Access to Infrastructure: Researchers highlighted the need for better access to high-performance computing and other AI-related facilities.
- Skills Development: Training programs and qualification standards for AI competencies are essential for researchers to effectively use these technologies.
- Talent Attraction and Retention: Initiatives to keep skilled professionals in the scientific AI field and attract new talent are critical.
- Interdisciplinary Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between different scientific disciplines will help maximize AI’s benefits.
- Data Governance and Ethics: Strengthening data management policies and ensuring responsible AI use are vital to maintain scientific integrity and public trust.
- International Cooperation: Collaborative efforts beyond Europe will enhance the exchange of knowledge and resources.
- Coordination Between EU and Member States: Aligning efforts across different governance levels will improve strategy implementation.
The Commission also plans to establish a Resource for AI Science in Europe. This will serve as a central hub to pool AI resources for scientists and advance AI research itself.
AI in Evaluation and Peer Review
Science Europe, a major association of research funding organizations, contributed its perspective during the consultations. It stressed the importance of responsible AI use and called for comprehensive training to equip researchers with necessary skills.
The association recommends that research organizations oversee ethical AI practices among scientists, while funding bodies should provide clear frameworks that embed ethics into evaluation processes. This includes setting guidelines on how AI can be utilized in grant applications and peer reviews.
Environmental concerns related to AI infrastructure were also raised, urging that energy consumption and sustainability be considered in future developments.
Science Europe emphasized the need for the AI strategy to align with existing EU regulations, such as data privacy laws, and to support European sovereignty. Funding strategies for AI infrastructure are also seen as a critical component of the plan.
Building AI Research Capacity in Europe
The strategy is unfolding alongside ongoing efforts by the EU, member states, and industry partners to develop a network of AI Factories. These high-performance computing centers will be available to researchers and innovators, providing the computational power needed for advanced AI applications in science.
For researchers interested in developing their AI skills, a range of training options is available to help navigate the evolving landscape of AI in science. Platforms like Complete AI Training offer courses tailored to scientific professionals aiming to enhance their AI capabilities.
This comprehensive approach aims to support scientists in using AI effectively, responsibly, and sustainably, ultimately increasing the impact and productivity of scientific research across Europe.
Your membership also unlocks:
