In short
The pages are the ERS Short-Term Research Fellowship (STRF) April 2026 Application Guidance, so the rule is stated for this one program only. Section 4.7 permits AI to improve clarity and language, bars AI for generating scientific ideas, and asks applicants to disclose AI use and purpose. The pages give no guidance for reviewers on AI.
Varies by program. The rule is set in each program's guidelines, so check the one you are applying to.
For applicants
- In the STRF, AI tools are permitted to improve clarity and language, such as proofreading, alternative vocabulary and sentence rephrasing. Applicants are responsible for the originality and accuracy of their proposals. [1]
- AI tools should not be used to generate scientific ideas. [1]
- Applicants are requested to disclose whether AI tools were used in preparing the application, and for what purpose. [1]
- Applicants should describe in the proposal how generative AI will be used in the proposed research activities. They remain fully responsible for that use, and failure to comply may lead to disqualification or revocation of funding. [1]
For reviewers
European Respiratory Society has published no rules for reviewers.
Sources
ERS Short-Term Research Fellowship (STRF) April 2026 Application Guidance (opens in a new tab)
ERS acknowledges the value of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, as well as human feedback, in the preparation of funding applications.
However, applicants are responsible for ensuring the originality and accuracy of their proposals.
AI tools should not be used to generate scientific ideas.
To provide transparency, applicants are requested to disclose whether AI tools were used in preparing their applications, and for what purpose (e.g., chatGPT was used to improve language style).
Applicants should include information about how generative AI will be utilised in their proposed research activities within the proposal.
Failure to comply with this rule may result in disqualification of the application or revocation of any awarded funding.
See European Respiratory Society's 1 open program
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.