In July, the Science Council held a flagship event to explore what lessons can be drawn from the adoption of AI across the science workforce and future implications.
A panel of speakers joined delegates to look at issues ranging from ethical considerations, how AI is reshaping early career pathways, what the future may hold for the science workforce, diversity, and evolving leadership.
Based on the conference discussions and emerging lessons, the Science Council recommends the following:
- Support the establishment of AI literacy as a core scientific competency.
Protect human judgement to ensure AI augments rather than substitutes professional expertise. - Strengthen transparency and public engagement in the use of AI in science.
- Support career development to ensure automation does not undermine opportunities for developing individual expertise and judgement.
- Foster responsible leadership and organisational culture when considering and using AI.
- Work to reduce AI’s environmental impact.
Thank you to all our speakers and panellists for generously sharing their experiences and insights, and to the Royal Society of Chemistry for hosting us.
