Exploring AI’s Role in Shaping Scientific Research

AI is transforming science by quickly revealing connections in large data sets, helping researchers speed up breakthroughs and gain deeper insights into complex systems. Tools like GPT language models enable us to find patterns and insights faster than ever, driving discoveries across all fields.

On 22nd October 2024, we had a fantastic opportunity to explore how this AI-driven transformation is shaping the future of scientific research during a special session that shared insights from the ERA SHUTTLE Summer School.

The meeting was hosted by the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS) and featured three speakers: dr. Agata Motyka-Pomagruk from the Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, dr. Daria Biernacka from the Collection of Plasmids and Microorganisms, and dr. Jakub Faktor from ICCVS. Dominika Butkiewicz introduced the ERA SHUTTLE project and its objectives. All the speakers, along with six other staff members from the University of Gdańsk, took part in the Summer School in Split, Croatia.

The first ERA SHUTTLE Summer School took place from 9 to 13 September 2024, in Split, Croatia. Around 60 participants from the entire project consortium came together for this event. The group included researchers, as well as research and grant managers.

The city provided participants with a beautiful Adriatic Sea climate, monuments, inspiring nature, and local cuisine. The University of Split, the event organizers, ensured a fully packed agenda and thought-provoking sessions.

The discussions focused on supporting scientific career development through AI, effectively transferring technology into business, and encouraging entrepreneurship. There were also inspiring sessions on EU programs for research funding, intellectual property management, and open access policies for research data.

The skills gained and the opportunity to connect with participants from the University of Gdańsk, University of Split, University of Malta, and non-academic partners from the project consortium proved extremely valuable for future work and professional development.

Jakub Faktor from ICCVS commented on the Summer School: ”Attending the Summer School in Split has offered invaluable insights into revolutionary technologies like AI and GPT models. One of the key takeaways from the summer school is that AI will play a defining role in shaping our scientific futures. While it is essential to ALIGN ourselves with these advancements, we must approach them thoughtfully, ensuring that we control AI’s potential to enlighten and empower us, rather than letting it cause harm and deception. The positive side of this transformative technology lies in its capacity to reveal truth and open new horizons for rapid human progress.”

Both events were organized by the ERA SHUTTLE project, Accelerating ERA by Sharing Unique Talents for a Healthy Life and Environment, financed by the European Union under the HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions.

More events are on the way—stay tuned at ERA SHUTTLE project website.