/w=1920,quality=90,fit=scale-down)
Best Practices for Use of Generative AI Tools in Research
The New England College of Optometry supports the innovative use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance research and scholarly communication. When used responsibly, these tools can accelerate discovery, improve efficiency, and support scholarly writing.
However, AI must be used ethically, transparently, and in accordance with professional and institutional standards. No research data, manuscripts, or drafts may be uploaded to any generative AI tool unless permission has been given by the principal investigator(s) or primary author(s).
The following principles guide responsible AI use in research and publishing (click on the drop-down to learn more):
By following these best practices, you help uphold NECO’s commitment to research excellence, academic integrity, and responsible innovation in the era of AI.
These guidelines were drafted using Google Gemini’s Deep Research tool on July 16, 2025. The following sources were consulted: Washington State University Office of Research: Guidelines for Generative AI, Initial Guidelines for the Use of Generative AI at Harvard
- NEVER share any identifiable patient information (PII) with a generative AI tool.
- Use generative AI tools in research with caution, and ensure you are not violating any grant funder and/or publisher terms and conditions in its use.
How can vision science researchers use generative AI?
- Conduct efficient literature reviews and identify research gaps. Consensus is an excellent tool for this.
- Provide concise summaries of the latest advancements in the field, either via text or podcast. NotebookLM is an excellent tool for this.
- Assist in experiment design by suggesting optimal parameters and control conditions.
- Identify potential ethical concerns in research design, and suggest ways to mitigate them.
- Assist with data cleaning, statistical analysis, and results interpretation.
For many more ideas: Go to gemini.google.com and type in the prompt:
How can vision science researchers use generative AI in the various stages of basic and/or clinical research?
Generative AI 101
Generative AI Toolkit
These tools are all NECO-approved. Click on the box below to learn more about each.
Similar to ChatGPT, but can also process and generate images, audio, and other forms of media.
Can summarize documents, create study guides, timelines, FAQs, flash cards, audio overviews, podcasts, and more. Uses only the data you tell it to use.
An AI-powered search engine for research papers. Sign up for an account using your NECO Gmail for access to the Pro version - which will also allow you to access full text where available.