Australia's researchers are being invited to take part in a national survey examining how artificial intelligence is changing the way research is conducted.
Science & Technology Australia (STA), supported by the MetaMelb Research Group at The University of Melbourne, is seeking researchers from across Australia to participate in Australia's National AI in Research Survey. The survey is designed to capture insights across the full research life cycle, encompassing all disciplines and career stages, as well as covering multiple categories of AI to help shape sector discussions and emerging government policy in this space.
STA CEO Ryan Winn said the survey results will help ensure the Australian research community has a strong voice in discussions about the future of AI and research.
"Artificial intelligence is already changing the way research is done, but we need to understand what that change looks like on the ground for Australian researchers," Mr Winn said.
"Researchers are best placed to tell us where AI is creating opportunities, where there are challenges and what support is needed to ensure Australia can make the most of this technology while maintaining the integrity and quality of our research."
Professor Fiona Fidler from The University of Melbourne said the survey comes as AI tools rapidly become part of the research landscape, with researchers exploring their potential to accelerate discovery, analyse data, generate new insights and support other aspects of the research process.
"Whether you use it enthusiastically, cautiously, or not at all, AI is here. We need to understand current practices before making decisions about policy, services, and training," Professor Fidler said.
Mr Winn said it was important that researchers were involved in shaping the policy conversation rather than having decisions about AI in research made without their input. These insights will be especially important to inform implementation of the Ambitious Australia report and development of the next National Research Infrastructure Roadmap.
The importance of these insights is recognised by both the National Health and Medical Research Council and Australian Research Council. The survey is endorsed by and has been refined in discussion with the new Office of AI in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Therefore, researchers' input will have benefits far and wide.
"Australia has an enormous opportunity to harness AI to strengthen our research system and accelerate discovery. But we need policy settings and investments that reflect the realities of researchers working across different disciplines, institutions and career stages," he said.
"We encourage Australian researchers to take a few minutes to complete the survey and make sure their experiences and perspectives are part of this important national conversation."
Australian researchers can take part in Australia's National AI in Research Survey here. The survey will close on 25 September 2026.
