Statement on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in research conducted by the Austrian Institute for Family Studies (ÖIF)

As a social science research institute based at the University of Vienna, we see it as our mission to conduct cutting-edge research. This also includes the responsible use of new methods, including artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. At present, there are no standardised, binding guidelines in the social sciences on the use or labelling of AI. We would therefore like to explain how we use AI in our day-to-day research and work.

We use AI selectively and as a tool to support our work. All suggestions generated by or with the aid of AI are carefully and critically examined, assessed from an expert’s perspective, and then edited, added to or rejected. Where AI makes a significant contribution to the research process, we are transparent about this, for example in the relevant publications. If personal data is involved, we use AI provided by the University of Vienna and comply with data protection regulations. As academics and researchers, we bear responsibility ourselves at all times.

AI is intended primarily to contribute to quality assurance and to free up resources – it does not replace our academic expertise and experience. When it comes to the core tasks of academic work – drawing up research questions; developing research designs taking into account theoretical and methodological considerations; collecting, producing, analysing and interpreting data; and formulating recommendations for decision-makers in society – our expertise and experience as researchers are indispensable.

Direct, face-to-face dialogue with the professional community, as well as with clients and funding bodies, also enables us to gain a precise understanding of the issues at hand and to tailor our work accordingly. This requires contextual knowledge that AI technologies do not have. In this way, we use the new tools responsibly, whilst adhering to the principles of good academic practice.