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EU Commission Struggles to Appoint Lead AI Scientist as Key Regulations Loom
The EU Commission struggles to appoint a lead scientific adviser for its AI Office as AI rules approach in August 2025. Delays stem from extended consultations and stakeholder concerns.
EU Commission Struggles to Appoint Lead Scientific Advisor on AI
The European Commission continues its search for a lead scientific adviser for its AI Office, despite receiving dozens of applications. This delay comes as the rules on General-Purpose AI (GPAI) are set to take effect on 2 August 2025. The recruitment process, which began in late 2024, remains incomplete according to a senior official.
Role and Responsibilities of the Lead Scientific Adviser
The adviser will be responsible for maintaining a high scientific standard in the Commission’s work on General-Purpose AI. Their duties include leading the scientific approach across all AI Office activities, ensuring rigor and integrity in AI initiatives. A particular focus will be on testing and evaluating GPAI models, working closely with the AI Office’s Safety Unit.
Ongoing Work on the Code of Practice
The Commission has not yet published the voluntary Code of Practice on GPAI, which was due by 2 May. This code is intended to guide AI model providers in complying with the EU’s AI Act. Since September 2024, thirteen experts have been appointed to facilitate feedback from about 1,000 participants through plenary sessions and workshops.
Delays are attributed to requests for extended consultations and criticism from various stakeholders. Publishers have raised concerns about copyright implications, while large US tech companies argue that some proposals are too restrictive and could hinder innovation. The Commission aims to release an updated draft before the summer.
The AI Act, which classifies AI tools by their societal risk, came into effect in August 2024. Its provisions will be gradually implemented until full applicability in 2027.
Preference for EU Nationals in Key Roles
The Commission prefers candidates from European countries for the lead scientific adviser position. This follows criticism in 2023 over appointing US national Fiona Scott Morton as chief economist, a role influencing fines on Big Tech firms under the EU’s digital market regulations. Scott Morton eventually withdrew after political backlash, including remarks from French President Emmanuel Macron.
Meanwhile, the AI Office plans to expand its team to 140 full-time staff by the end of 2025, up from 100 currently.
What This Means for Science and Research Professionals
The delay in appointing a lead scientific adviser signals challenges within the EU’s AI governance framework, especially as regulatory deadlines approach. Researchers and professionals involved in AI development and policy should monitor these developments closely, as the adviser’s role will influence the evaluation standards and safety measures for GPAI models.
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