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.
Show moreStarting year
2025
End year
2029
Granted funding
Funder
Research Council of Finland
Funding instrument
Academy projects
Decision maker
Scientific Council for Social Sciences and Humanities
17.06.2025
17.06.2025
Other information
Funding decision number
369925
Fields of science
Philosophy
Research fields
Tieteenfilosofia ja metodologia