Generative AI is in a revolutionary phase of development. This has and will continue to have profound impact on society as well as science. It serves as enabler but also presents inherent challenges. It is important to develop a realistic understanding on the transformative nature of generative AI for the sciences and society, and how to responsibly use this revolutionary technology. As a network of European centres of excellence in digital technology, the ERCIM institutes are well positioned to contribute to this discussion within a national and European context.
Report on the 2024 ERCIM Visionary Event “Challenges and Opportunities of Foundational Models and Generative AI for Science and Society”
Experts from across Europe gathered on 16 April 2024 in Brussels, at the Maison Irène et Frédéric Joliot Curie, to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of generative AI and large language models (LLMs) during the ERCIM visionary event titled “Challenges and Opportunities of Foundational Models and Generative AI for Science and Society.” The event featured focused sessions covering the current state of affairs, an overview of the European political landscape, and the impact of LLMs on science and society. The day concluded with a panel discussion on the role of digital sciences in addressing the opportunities and challenges posed by LLMs and generative AI.
The authors of the report, who were also the event’s organisers, documented the discussions, opinions, and statements made during the event, highlighting key insights.
The report is divided into two parts: the first part focuses on LLMs and AI at the EU level, along with specific technical perspectives and applications. The second part presents broader views on the impact of AI on society and science, along with reflections from the panel discussion. These sections offer several key takeaways and high-level recommendations distilled by the authors.
The report that aims to help institutes and organisations to develop an organisational understanding and possibly a strategy, to promote the responsible use and development of generative AI.
The report is available for download at: https://www.ercim.eu/publications/strategic-reports
