Friend or Foe? Exploring the Implications of Large Language Models on the Science System

Understand

The advent of ChatGPT by OpenAI has prompted extensive discourse on its potential implications for science and higher education.

• While the impact on education has been a primary focus, there is limited empirical research on the effects of large language models (LLMs) and LLM-based chatbots on science and scientific practice.
• To investigate this further, we conducted a Delphi study involving 72 experts specialising in research and AI.
• The study focused on applications and limitations of LLMs, their effects on the science system, ethical and legal considerations, and the required competencies for their effective use.