The European Commission has released an updated version of the European Research Area (ERA) Living Guidelines on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence in research
Published on 8 May 2026, the revised ERA Living Guidelines will guide researchers in navigating the rapidly evolving role of AI in scientific work while maintaining strong standards of research integrity.
The updated ERA Living Guidelines come at a time when generative AI tools are becoming increasingly common across universities, laboratories, and innovation-driven industries.
Researchers are using AI systems to assist with literature reviews, data analysis, report drafting, and information management. As adoption grows, the European Commission says clear and practical guidance is essential to ensure AI is used responsibly and transparently.
Keeping up to date with AI developments
The new ERA Living Guidelines build on the original framework by reflecting the latest advances in generative AI technologies and their growing impact on the scientific community.
While the overall structure and practical approach of the guidance remain unchanged, the latest edition introduces refinements designed to improve clarity and address emerging challenges linked to AI use in research environments.
Researchers are encouraged to clearly understand how AI tools influence their work and to remain fully responsible for the accuracy and reliability of research outputs.
The Commission emphasised that generative AI should support human expertise rather than replace scientific judgment or ethical decision-making.
New risks and emerging challenges
Some of the biggest changes in the ERA Living Guidelines concern the use of AI during meetings and in information management activities involving third parties. The document highlights potential risks when AI systems are used to record, summarise, or process sensitive discussions and research-related information.
The updated guidance also highlights the issue of “hidden prompts.” These are instructions embedded within AI systems that may not be visible to users but can influence outputs or behavior. The Commission warns that organisations and researchers need greater awareness of these hidden mechanisms, particularly when handling confidential data or relying on AI-generated content in scientific work.
As AI systems become more integrated into research practices, the guidelines encourage institutions to strengthen oversight and ensure that researchers are properly trained to identify potential risks associated with AI-generated information.
The updated ERA Living Guidelines were developed through collaboration between countries and stakeholders across the European Research Area. According to the Commission, maintaining an inclusive and open approach remains central to the initiative.
The ERA Living Guidelines are designed to evolve continuously as technological developments unfold. An open feedback process will allow researchers, organisations and other stakeholders to continue contributing suggestions and improvements as generative AI technologies advance further.
