AI & Generative AI policy

The European Chemistry and Biotechnology Journal recognizes the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI tools in scholarly research and writing. The journal permits the responsible use of such tools only when transparency, accountability, and scientific integrity are fully maintained.

Permissible Use of AI Tools

Authors may use AI-assisted tools (e.g., for language editing or grammar improvement) provided that:

  • The use of AI tools is clearly disclosed in the manuscript;
  • AI tools do not replace the authors’ original intellectual contributions;
  • Authors retain full responsibility for the accuracy, originality, and integrity of the content.

Acceptable uses may include:

  • Language polishing and grammar correction;
  • Improving clarity and readability of text written by the authors.

Prohibited Use of AI Tools

The following uses of AI and generative AI tools are not permitted:

  • Listing AI tools as authors or co-authors;
  • Using AI tools to generate original scientific content, data, results, interpretations, or conclusions without human oversight;
  • Fabrication or falsification of data, images, references, or citations using AI;
  • Use of AI tools to manipulate or generate images in a way that misrepresents experimental results.

Disclosure Requirement

Authors must disclose the use of AI tools in a dedicated statement within the manuscript, typically in the Acknowledgements or Methods section, specifying:

  • The name of the AI tool used;
  • The purpose for which the tool was used (e.g., language editing).

Failure to disclose the use of AI tools may be considered a breach of publication ethics.

Authorship and Accountability

AI tools cannot meet authorship criteria as defined by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE).
Therefore:

  • AI tools must not be credited as authors;
  • All listed authors are fully accountable for the content of the manuscript, including any part generated or assisted by AI tools.

Editorial Assessment and Actions

The editorial office may assess the disclosed use of AI tools during peer review. If inappropriate or undisclosed use of AI is suspected:

  • Authors may be asked to provide clarification or revise the manuscript;
  • The manuscript may be rejected;
  • In cases identified after publication, the journal may issue a correction, expression of concern, or retraction, in line with COPE guidelines.