12 March 2026

The use of genAI in research is here to stay – including at Leiden Law School. How can we use it responsibly? What opportunities, limitations, and risks does it bring? New guidelines for researchers provide answers.

Generative AI (genAI) is a form of AI that automatically creates content based on 'prompts'. The faculty guidelines for its use in research are available here: Use of genAI for research. Tips are shared on how to use genAI consciously and effectively at various stages in the research process: from developing a research idea or grant application and defining a research project, to conducting research and presenting research results.

How did these guidelines come about?
The faculty's AI Working Group noticed that while information was already available about AI and education, there was not much on how researchers should use AI. That was good reason to develop these guidelines. 'We deliberately made them short and straightforward for our researchers,' says Jan-Jaap Oerlemans, who chaired the AI and research working group. 'The AI survey also gave us information on how researchers at our faculty currently use AI,' he continues. According to Oerlemans, it’s important to have guidelines because while genAI offers great potential for scientific research, we are often still insufficiently aware of the risks.

Proactive
Publishers of journals, grant providers such as the Dutch Research Council (NWO), and other academic institutions, have already developed their own policies. 'Our faculty can’t lag behind. It’s important that we not only respond to what’s already available, but also be proactive in considering how genAI fits within our research practices and our programmes'.

What you need to know
The results from the AI and research working group have now been developed into guidelines. These are available on the webpage, which also provides a brief explanation of what genAI entails. The page also sets out important points that need attention when conducting research. GenAI offers powerful tools, but at the same time it calls for critical and responsible use.

• Talk to each other: Whether you’re a PhD supervisor, co-author, or senior researcher, discuss the use of genAI with colleagues and others involved. What do you use, why, and how do you check the output?
• Not all tools are suitable: GenAI can offer support in a variety of ways, but not every tool is suitable for every purpose. GenAI is a tool, not a substitute for critical thinking. It’s important that early-career researchers continue to develop their writing and analytical skills.
• Transparency: Do you use genAI to create images, summaries, or text? Always disclose which tool you have used and be aware of the impact. For example, think about the impact on the environment and ask yourself – is it really necessary to generate an image?

Risks
Besides showing the opportunities genAI can offer, the webpage also gives some tips on how to limit the risks. Matters such as knowledge security, privacy and data protection, copyright, ethical aspects and the impact on the environment are mentioned.