Using Generative AI for Behavioural Research Effectively and Responsibly: a BR-UK Statement

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used across the behavioural research lifecycle. It may improve the efficiency and quality of research, but rapid, uncritical adoption carries risks to research integrity: algorithmic bias, ethical concerns around consent, privacy and plagiarism, erosion of researchers’ skills and public trust, and environmental costs. This Open Letter presents Behavioural Research UK’s (BR-UK) statement on using generative AI effectively and responsibly in behavioural research. It was informed by existing guidance and expert consultation. The statement sets out BR-UK’s four key propositions: (1) research ethics and integrity principles must include AI concerns; (2) AI should assist, but not replace, researchers through a human-in-the-loop approach; (3) rigorous evaluation of AI use is essential; and (4) coordinated stakeholder action is needed to move from identifying risks to practical solutions. It then provides recommendations and points to practical tools, such as decision aids and checklists for declaring AI use, for seven stakeholder groups, namely research-generating institutions, funders, publication outlets, behavioural research networks and communities, AI platform and tool providers, individual researchers, and research users. The statement will be reviewed annually until 2028, the duration of BR-UK, as technology and evidence evolve.