Generative AI in Scientific Writing
Introduction
This policy outlines the guidelines for the use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) within Separation Science’s editorial processes. It covers the use of AI-generated text, data, and imagery for both in-house and contributed content. The policy is designed to ensure that our use of AI tools aligns with Separation Science’s commitment to accuracy, transparency, and ethical standards in publishing.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and contributors involved in the editorial process at Separation Science, including writers, editors, illustrators, and content managers.
In-house editorial use of generative AI
Generative AI may be used in-house to assist with idea generation, subject research, and content structuring. Where AI-assisted tools support our creative process, all content is edited, fact-checked, and approved by our editorial team to ensure it meets Separation Science’s quality standards before it is published.
In instances where AI-assisted tools have been used to generate text, the following disclaimer will be included to ensure transparency to our readers.
This content includes text that has been created with the assistance of generative AI and has undergone editorial review before publishing. Separation Science’s AI policy can be found here.
Contributed content, including requirements for publication
Any use of AI must not breach journalistic ethics, and plagiarism will not be tolerated – Separation Science’s editorial team runs all contributed content through trusted plagiarism detection software as part of the publication’s standard review process. Content submitted to Separation Science must be the author’s own, and not present others’ data, words, or imagery without seeking permission (if applicable) and providing appropriate citation.
The use of AI must be declared and clearly explained. Writers who use AI or AI-assisted tools during the writing process must disclose their use upon submission of the draft to Separation Science.
In instances where AI-assisted tools have been used to generate text, the following disclaimer will be included to ensure transparency to our readers.
This content includes text that has been created with the assistance of generative AI and has undergone editorial review before publishing. Separation Science’s AI policy can be found here.
Generative AI images
Separation Science follows existing copyright law and best practices regarding the publication of imagery. As the situation relating to AI-generated images and videos remains broadly unresolved, we do not permit third parties and external contributors of any kind to use AI or AI-assisted tools to create or alter images they submit to Separation Science for publication on our website.
Generative AI may be used by our in-house editorial team to create or alter images. Images created or altered using AI tools will be appropriately and clearly credited and labeled to provide transparency for our readers.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Compliance: All uses of generative AI must comply with current laws and regulations concerning copyright, data security, and privacy.
Ethical Use: AI tools must be used responsibly, avoiding the intentional creation or dissemination of misleading, biased, or harmful content.
Training and Awareness
Employees and contributors must be provided with training on the ethical use of AI tools, including understanding the limitations and biases of these technologies.
Evolving AI strategies
Separation Science appreciates that this area is changing rapidly. As such, it will monitor developments related to the use of generative AI in publishing and will review and adapt its policy should it be appropriate to do so.
We are committed to maintaining high journalistic standards and encourage our readers to share their feedback on our use of AI, via our Contact Us page.