Scientist in the loop - Automation of scientific discovery (SCI-AI)

Description of the granted funding

Where do new scientific ideas come from? Can a computer make new scientific discoveries? Artificial intelligence systems like AlphaFold and self-driving labs have in the recent years led to significant breakthroughs in drug development, materials science and structural biology. This research project, situated at the intersection of philosophy of science and cognitive science, investigates the processes of AI-augmented scientific discovery. The study involves ethnographic fieldwork conducted in frontier AI labs, and cognitive modeling of problem-solving within AI-augmented research teams. What are the benefits and risks of AI-powered discovery? Do automated discoveries enhance scientific understanding? What does AI-augmented problem solving reveal about human creativity and intelligence? The research is conducted at University of Helsinki, in Theoretical Philosophy, as part of the activities of the TINT research group. For more information, visit www.samulireijula.net.
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Starting year

2025

End year

2029

Granted funding

Samuli Reijula Orcid -palvelun logo
599 597 €

Funder

Research Council of Finland

Funding instrument

Academy projects

Decision maker

Scientific Council for Social Sciences and Humanities
17.06.2025

Other information

Funding decision number

369925

Fields of science

Philosophy

Research fields

Tieteenfilosofia ja metodologia