ISTANBUL

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are rapidly becoming embedded in research management worldwide, but many research office staff fear the technology could undermine research integrity, according to new global surveys released Thursday.

A study by Research Professional News surveyed more than 1,100 research office staff across several regions, finding that AI has quickly become part of everyday administrative and strategic tasks.

More than a third of respondents reported using AI to identify funding opportunities (35%), while others said they rely on the technology to edit or improve grant applications (33%), manage data (30%) and compile material for proposal submissions (24%).

A separate survey of over 1,400 researchers showed similarly widespread adoption. Nearly half said they use AI for literature searches, and many said they apply it to literature reviews, manuscript drafting and data analysis. A smaller but notable share reported using AI in peer review.

Despite the rapid uptake, the surveys revealed significant unease. Sixty percent of research office staff identified AI as the greatest threat to research integrity -- ahead of publication pressure, cultural challenges and insufficient training.

Respondents said that while AI boosts efficiency, misuse or overreliance could erode critical thinking and expert judgment. Many called for urgent training programs to support responsible use.

The report also examined the impact of political developments in the US, particularly Donald Trump’s return to the presidency. Nearly one-third of respondents outside North America said they had experienced funding losses linked to recent US policy shifts, while more than a quarter reported halted collaborations with American partners.