In short
Neither CDC nor its extramural research program (ERA) has published an AI rule of its own on using AI to write or review grant applications. The only guidance that reaches CDC applicants comes from HHS's Office of Research Integrity (ORI). ORI recommends that researchers identify any generative AI tools used in preparing a grant application and explain how they were used. This is a nonbinding recommendation. It covers applications for PHS-funded biomedical or behavioral research only, and it does not reach program or service cooperative agreements. Disclosed AI use that departs from the accepted practices of the relevant research community may still be considered evidence of research misconduct. Each NOFO should be checked for added rules.
Varies by program. The rule is set in each program's guidelines, so check the one you are applying to.
For applicants
- CDC has published no AI rule of its own. For research applications, ORI recommends that applicants identify any generative AI tools used in preparing the grant application and explain how they were used. The guidance is nonbinding. It falls under the HHS research misconduct rule (42 CFR Part 93), which covers applications for CDC research funding. [1][2]
- Disclosed AI use that departs from the accepted practices of the relevant research community may still be considered evidence of research misconduct. Undisclosed or inaccurately described data generation or processing with AI tools may be evidence of data fabrication or falsification. [1]
For reviewers
CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL CSTLTS has published no rules for reviewers.
Sources
Researchers should identify any generative AI tools used during their research and manuscript and grant preparation and explain how these tools were used.
This guidance document is provided by the Office of Research Integrity (ORI) to assist entities that apply for or receive Public Health Service (PHS) funding for biomedical or behavioral research
This guidance document does not create or confer rights for or on any person and does not operate to bind ORI, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the public.
If a researcher discloses use of a generative AI tool in a manner inconsistent with the accepted practices of the relevant research community, that use may still be considered evidence of research misconduct.
undisclosed or inaccurately described data generation or processing with AI tools may be evidence of data fabrication or falsification.
Public Health Service or PHS consists of the following components within HHS: the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, the Office of Global Affairs, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Every extramural or intramural institution that applies for or receives PHS support for biomedical or behavioral research, biomedical or behavioral research training, or activities related to that research or research training must comply with this part.
This page summarizes what the funder has published and is not legal advice. Policies change, and one solicitation can add its own rules. Confirm against the funding announcement before you apply.