AI in science management: innovation or risk for the future?

AI in science management: innovation or risk for the future?

In August 2023, over 25 employees from the Technical University of Braunschweig met in the Media Lab to take part in the science management network. This network acts as an important interface between administration and research and aims to develop processes, coordinate projects and create structures that support research and teaching. Interest in this network, which was founded last year, is continually growing, especially among new employees.

The network meetings offer various exchange formats, excursions and keynote speeches. At the last meeting, the focus was on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into everyday work. The participants reported different experiences with AI, ranging from frequent use to few touchpoints. A central point of the discussion was the concrete benefits of AI, including structuring data and designing texts. Critical questions such as the limits of automation and the responsible use of new technologies were also discussed.

Future network meetings and topics

The participants took fresh ideas and practical experiences back to their facilities. The next network meeting is planned for November 2025 and will address the topic of “Ecoversity”, to which representatives from non-university institutions are also invited. The dates for future meetings will be announced approximately three months in advance on the website and in the mailing list. The network is organized by the Strategic University Development Office.

The Science Management Network, which aims, among other things, to professionalize and strengthen science management, is part of a larger trend that is developing in response to the challenges in research, teaching and transfer. The XIV annual conference of the Science Management Network in 2025 will examine the topic “Shaping Futures – Science Management in Times of Change and Upheaval”. The focus is on shaping the future of science management in the face of dynamic changes, growing complexity and social responsibility. This event will combine theory and practice and offer action-oriented contributions, workshops and research insights on topics such as governance, responsibility, digitalization, foresight and collaborative knowledge development.

The influence of artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important and is being widely discussed. While some in Silicon Valley celebrate the change brought about by AI, a critical examination is needed in broader society. Political strategies to promote AI, such as the national initiative “Mission AI – AI made in Germany” and the European AI strategy, aim to advance the development and introduction of AI in Europe. These initiatives intend to ensure that AI serves people and brings societal benefits. The responsibility of science management is becoming increasingly important with regard to the ethical implications and the implementation of new technologies.

With over 500 members in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the Science Management Network offers a platform for professional development and networking across hierarchies, institutions and national borders. In the context of an increasingly digitalized world, it is crucial that scientists are provided with the right framework conditions to master the challenges of the future.

The development in the area of ​​science management and artificial intelligence shows that close cooperation between research and administration is necessary in order to optimally shape the rapid change. The topics are important not only for those involved in the network, but also for society as a whole, which is also affected by the progress and developments in these areas.

The Science Management Network will continue to strive to maintain dialogue on such essential topics in the future in order to strengthen the scientific infrastructure and at the same time meet the requirements of research and teaching. In this regard, exchange and networking are crucial for developing effective strategies that are both innovative and responsible.

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