Graduate Research School Using GenAI in HDR Research and Thesis Writing

Using GenAI in HDR Research and Thesis Writing

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools can enhance your research and writing but must be used responsibly and transparently. This guide summarises how to use GenAI ethically during your HDR journey at JCU.  The use of GenAI in research, education and business is now pervasive and unavoidable, hence the importance of you engaging and exploring the use of AI in your research within appropriate guardrails.

These guidelines are not exhaustive – GenAI is evolving too fast to be definitive and prescriptive.  Different disciplines have different expectations regarding GenAI, so it’s critical to keep engaged with your Advisors about your use of GenAI tools.  Projects that involve Human Ethics approval should pay careful attention to ensure the use of GenAI to is not in breach of any ethics conditions.

The JCU AI Policy describes 6 guiding principles for the ethical use of AI at JCU across all areas of our work, including research.  You are encouraged to consider these principles in your use of AI within your research.

For more information on using AI responsibly please see AI@JCU

Ethical Principles for the use of AI at JCU

The University maintains transparency in decision-making processes involving AI, holds individuals and work units accountable for the outcomes of AI systems, and provides mechanisms for individuals to contest decisions and provide feedback.

The University designs AI applications with a focus on human rights, diversity and inclusivity, ensuring they respect individual autonomy and prevent discrimination.

The University strives for AI systems to be inclusive, accessible, and free from bias, and actively engages with impacted communities to mitigate negative impacts.

The University upholds privacy rights and data protection standards, implementing robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information.

The University ensures AI systems operate reliably and safely, meeting intended purposes and complying with relevant legislation and standards.

The University will ensure decision-making and accountability structures oversee the development and implementation of AI technologies.

Guidance for responsible AI usage

Acceptable Uses

  • Brainstorming ideas, literature searches and summarising literature.
  • Grammar, style checking (e.g., Grammarly) and translation.
  • Summarising or paraphrasing for clarity while retaining meaning.
  • Visual design or conceptual diagrams (with attribution).
  • Validated AI/Machine Learning methods for data analysis (fully documented).
  • Assistance with coding, including documentation of coding (with attribution).

Unacceptable Uses

  • Generating or altering data or results.
  • Writing thesis sections or literature reviews without disclosure.
  • Using AI-generated references or citations.
  • Uploading confidential data to public AI systems. Submitting AI-generated text as your own work.

Disclosure Example

"Portions of this thesis were supported by AI-assisted tools. ChatGPT (OpenAI, 2025) was used to assist with grammar checking and improving readability of early drafts. All substantive content, analysis, and interpretation are the author’s own."

Quick Guide:

AI Use CaseAcceptableUnacceptable
Grammar & style editing Language improvement with disclosure AI text presented as your own
Idea generation Brainstorming & outlining Copying AI-generated text
Data analysis Validated, transparent use Unverified black-box outputs
References Finding and verifying sources Fake or AI-invented citations
Thesis writing Structure & clarity aid Replacing your argument or interpretation

Use GenAI to enhance your learning and productivity, not replace your critical thinking or authorship.