NSF X-Labs AI policy
In short
The NSF X-Labs solicitation and FAQ say nothing about AI use by proposers or reviewers. NSF's agency-wide notice on generative AI in merit review is the only published guidance: NSF encourages (but does not require) proposers to describe any generative AI use, holds proposers responsible for accuracy, and bars reviewers from uploading proposal content to non-approved AI tools.
These rules come from U.S. National Science Foundation, which sets policy for NSF X-Labs applicants.
For applicants
For reviewers
Sources
- [1]Notice to Research Community: Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence Technology in the NSF Merit Review Process
U.S. National Science Foundation, December 14, 2023
“Proposers are encouraged to indicate in the project description the extent to which, if any, generative AI technology was used and how it was used to develop their proposal.”
“Proposers are responsible for the accuracy and authenticity of their proposal submission in consideration for merit review, including content developed with the assistance of generative AI tools.”
“Generative AI tools may create these risks, and proposers and awardees are responsible for ensuring the integrity of their proposal and reporting of research results.”
“NSF reviewers are prohibited from uploading any content from proposals, review information and related records to non-approved generative AI tools. If reviewers take this action, NSF will consider it a violation of the agency's confidentiality pledge and other applicable laws, regulations and policies.”
“NSF reviewers may share publicly available information with current generation generative AI tools.”
This page summarizes published guidance and is not legal advice. Policies change, and a specific solicitation can add its own rules, so confirm against the funding announcement before you apply. See every funder's AI policy.