SOAR 2025 Recap

As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms the world we live in, research stands at a critical crossroads. How can we embrace AI in ways that enhance, rather than erode, the human-centered values at the heart of research? In this keynote, Dr. Justin Shewell explores how AI tools can be thoughtfully integrated into research with a focus on ethical and methodological considerations. The keynote unpacks how AI works, highlights risks such as data privacy and inherent biases, and offers practical strategies for empowering researchers. This session invites researchers to critically engage with AI, not just as a technological trend, but as a partner in building a more 

This plenary examines the impact of generative AI on contemporary research practices. Through real-world examples, it highlights how tools such as large language models and multimodal systems can support data analysis, literature reviews, and knowledge synthesis. 

The session will also address ethical concerns, reliability, and bias, while showcasing practical workflows that integrate AI without compromising academic standards. Participants will gain strategies for using AI to enhance creativity and develop responsible, future-ready research approaches.