The Role of Artificial Intelligence for Science Academies

Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents transformative potential for science academies, offering tools to enhance the various tasks and processes carried out by these organisations. They range from research synthesis to administrative functions, scientific advisory processes to marketing and engagement with academia. This event explores how AI can support the mission and activities of science academies while fostering inter-academy cooperation. 

As academies navigate the integration of AI, critical ethical challenges arise – including algorithmic bias, transparency and accountability – which must be addressed to maintain the integrity and credibility of scientific institutions. The event will examine how AI can be responsibly leveraged for different functions, with a particular focus on scientific processes and the nuances of science advice. Key considerations include the need for targeted training to equip staff and stakeholders with the skills to evaluate and use AI tools effectively and ethically.  

This event will also reflect on the suitability of current AI solutions for supporting evidence-informed policy processes and the importance of safeguarding core values such as independence, inclusivity, and rigor. Through cross-academy dialogue, this is an opportunity to chart a responsible path forward for AI in science academies. 

The discussion will also reflect the work carried out by the SAPEA consortium over the past year in establishing guidelines for the use of AI tools within the Scientific Advice Mechanism to the European Commission.

Programme

Please note that all times are provided in Central European Time (CET). For in-person attendees in Estonia, the local time is one hour ahead (EET).

09:30–10:00    Registration, welcome and coffee

10:00–11:00    Keynote Address

• The role of science academies in the 21st century: purpose and cross-border cooperation. Followed by Q&A.

11:00–11:15    Coffee break

11:15–12:00    Panel Discussion: AI in Science – Challenges and Opportunities

Exploring the opportunities and challenges of AI in research, including research integrity, transparency, bias, reproducibility and public trust.

12:00–13:00    Lunch break

13:00–14:15    Presentation & Panel Discussion: AI in Scientific Advice for Policymaking

• Presentation of the Guidelines and Procedures for the Use of AI in the Scientific Advice Mechanism, followed by a discussion on the opportunities, risks and responsible use of AI in science for policy.

14:15–14:30    Coffee break

14:30–15:30    Panel Discussion: What Role for AI in Advancing the Mission of Science Academies?

• Exploring how science academies can use AI responsibly to support their activities, improve efficiency and strengthen AI literacy and institutional support.