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Generative AI for Research
Generative AI for Research
Generative AI for Research

Generative AI for Research

Last updated:
Feb 27, 2026 9:31 PM
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Best Practices for Gen AI in Research

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  • NEVER share any identifiable patient information (PII) with a generative AI tool.
  • Use generative AI tools in research with caution, and ensure you are not violating any grant funder and/or publisher terms and conditions in its use.
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How can vision science researchers use generative AI?

  • Conduct efficient literature reviews and identify research gaps. Consensus is an excellent tool for this.
  • Provide concise summaries of the latest advancements in the field, either via text or podcast. NotebookLM is an excellent tool for this.
  • Assist in experiment design by suggesting optimal parameters and control conditions.
  • Identify potential ethical concerns in research design, and suggest ways to mitigate them.
  • Assist with data cleaning, statistical analysis, and results interpretation.
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For many more ideas: Go to gemini.google.com and type in the prompt:

How can vision science researchers use generative AI in the various stages of basic and/or clinical research?

Generative AI Toolkit

These tools are all NECO-approved. Click on the box below to learn more about each.

Google Gemini
Google Gemini

Similar to ChatGPT, but can also process and generate images, audio, and other forms of media.

Google NotebookLM
Google NotebookLM

Can summarize documents, create study guides, timelines, FAQs, flash cards, podcasts, and more. Uses only the data you tell it to use.

Consensus
Consensus

An AI-powered search engine for research papers. Sign up for an account using your NECO Gmail for access to the Pro version - which will also allow you to access full text where available.

NECO GAiTE (Gen AI Tool Evaluator)
NECO GAiTE (Gen AI Tool Evaluator)

Find out if the tool you want to use is appropriate for use at NECO.

Generative AI 101

Generative AI: FAQ
Generative AI: FAQ
Generative AI: Definitions
Generative AI: Definitions
How to Write Effective Prompts
How to Write Effective Prompts
Self-paced AI Training Programs
Self-paced AI Training Programs
Generative AI: Protecting Your Data
Generative AI: Protecting Your Data
Copyright and AI
Copyright and AI
Selected Articles and eBooks on Gen AI
Selected Articles and eBooks on Gen AI

Best Practices for Use of Generative AI Tools in Research

The New England College of Optometry supports the innovative use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance research and scholarly communication. When used responsibly, these tools can accelerate discovery, improve efficiency, and support scholarly writing.

However, AI must be used ethically, transparently, and in accordance with professional and institutional standards. No research data, manuscripts, or drafts may be uploaded to any generative AI tool unless permission has been given by the principal investigator(s) or primary author(s).

The following principles guide responsible AI use in research and publishing (click on the drop-down to learn more):

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AI is Not an Author

Generative AI tools cannot be listed as authors on any publication or scholarly work. Authorship requires intellectual contribution, accountability, and the ability to consent—criteria that AI does not meet. Human researchers bear full responsibility for all content submitted for publication.

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Always Disclose AI Use

Transparency is essential. If you use AI to assist with any part of your research or manuscript preparation (e.g., drafting text, summarizing literature, generating code or visuals), you must explicitly disclose this use. Disclosures should typically be included in the Methods section or Acknowledgments, in accordance with the guidelines of your target journal or conference.

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Accountability

Regardless of AI assistance, you are solely responsible for the accuracy, originality, and ethical integrity of your work. All AI-generated content must be critically reviewed, edited, and verified by the human author(s). AI should never substitute for your scientific judgment, domain expertise, or ethical responsibility.

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Protect Confidential and Patient Data

Do not input any Personal Health Information (PHI), patient records, confidential data, or sensitive research content into public or non-NECO-approved AI platforms. Public generative AI tools may store or use input data for training purposes, leading to potential privacy violations. Only use platforms that are explicitly approved, secure, and HIPAA-compliant. If in doubt, consult NECO’s IT or Research Compliance Office.

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Verify Accuracy and Mitigate Bias

Generative AI tools can fabricate information (“hallucinate”) or reflect embedded biases. Always validate AI outputs against primary sources. In health-related or clinical research, remain especially vigilant about potential bias and misrepresentation. Actively work to identify and mitigate such issues in any published material.

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Avoid Copyright Infringement and Plagiarism

The copyright status of AI-generated content is currently uncertain and subject to change. Do not use AI tools to reproduce or modify copyrighted material without permission. You are responsible for ensuring that your work is original, properly cited, and free from plagiarism. For guidance, contact NECO Library staff or refer to NECO’s Academic Integrity Policy.

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Use AI as an Aid, Not a Replacement

Generative AI tools can assist with drafting, summarizing, translating, and ideation—but they do not replace your expertise, critical thinking, or scientific rigor. Use AI to support your workflow, not to perform substantive research analysis or draw conclusions.

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Consult Journal and Funding Policies

Policies on AI use in scholarly publishing and grant submissions are evolving rapidly. Always consult the most current “Instructions for Authors” of your target journal or funding agency to ensure compliance with their guidelines related to AI-generated content, disclosures, and authorship.

By following these best practices, you help uphold NECO’s commitment to research excellence, academic integrity, and responsible innovation in the era of AI.

These guidelines were drafted using Google Gemini’s Deep Research tool on July 16, 2025.  The following sources were consulted: Washington State University Office of Research: Guidelines for Generative AI, Initial Guidelines for the Use of Generative AI at Harvard