AIRON is the global community advancing responsible, human-centered AI adoption in research operations. We bring together professionals from universities, funding agencies, libraries, policy organizations, and technology partners to explore, share, and strengthen how AI supports research and knowledge-intensive work.
Our work is rooted in community, collaboration, and the belief that meaningful, ethical adoption of AI must be shaped by the people closest to the work.
Our Mission
To empower the global research community to adopt AI responsibly, collaboratively, and with confidence — ensuring emerging technologies strengthen research systems, elevate professional practice, and support people, science, and society.
Our Values
These principles guide everything we do:
Community-Led: We believe the people closest to the work should shape the future of the work.
Human-Centered: AI should enhance — not replace — human intelligence, judgment, and expertise.
Responsible & Ethical: We advocate for transparency, fairness, and integrity at every step of AI adoption.
Collaborative & Open: Knowledge grows when it is shared. AIRON builds spaces for learning across roles, institutions, and regions.
Practical & Real-World: We focus on what works in practice — grounded examples, tested workflows, and emerging skills.
AIRON’s Responsible AI Code of Practice
AIRON is committed to advancing responsible, ethical, and people-first use of AI in research operations.
Our Responsible AI Code outlines principles for:
- transparency
- fairness
- accountability
- human oversight
- equity and inclusion
- sector-appropriate, context-aware use.
AIRON at a Glance
- 500+ members
- 120 institutions
- 22 countries
AIRON is a global network — grounded in local context, enriched through peer learning, and united by shared purpose.
Our Work
AIRON connects and supports the global research ecosystem through:
- Community Spaces (Regional Groups, Experts Groups) and Community Activities (Events, AIRON Blog, AIRON Pulse Newsletter)
- AIRO Leads Program & Alumni Community
- Sector-Wide Initiatives (State of AI in Research Operations 2026, Knowledge Hub)
- AIRON Academy (workshops, training, and capability-building)
Learn more on our Programs, Community, and Initiatives pages.
Leadership & Governance
Founder & Executive Director
Anna Aston
Founder of AIRON and thought leader on the AI-powered future of research and work.
Anna leads AIRON’s global strategy, programs, and sector partnerships while championing community-led, human-centered AI adoption.
Learn more about Anna’s work here.
Steering Circle
A group of senior practitioners providing strategic insight, community leadership, and sector perspective for AIRON’s programs and initiatives.
Advisory Council (Global)
AIRON’s Advisory Council brings together respected leaders from across the research ecosystem to support AIRON’s mission, uphold its values, and guide its long-term direction.
(Members will be listed once appointed.)
Board of Directors (Coming Soon)
A Board of Directors will provide governance and fiduciary oversight.
AIRON Institutional Partners
AIRON works directly with universities, research organizations, and consortia committed to advancing responsible AI adoption.
Institutional Partners gain access to strategic briefings, sector insights, collaborative initiatives, and tailored capability-building opportunities.
→ Submit an Expression of Interest
AIRON Tech Partners
AIRON works with technology providers and AI companies that share a commitment to strengthening responsible, future-ready research.
These partnerships enable collaborative pilots, meaningful knowledge exchange, and aligned efforts that connect AIRON’s community-driven work with the evolving needs of research institutions.
→ Submit an Expression of Interest
Join AIRON
Be part of a global community shaping responsible AI in research operations.
AIRON 