AIRON’s initiatives support our charitable purpose of advancing education for the public benefit by increasing knowledge, understanding and informed discussion about the responsible, ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence within research operations.

Each initiative contributes to the development of freely available educational resources, publications and shared learning that benefit the wider research community.

State of AI in Research Operations 2026

The State of AI in Research Operations 2026 is AIRON’s annual educational survey, designed to improve understanding of how artificial intelligence is being explored and used within research operations across different institutions and countries.

The survey gathers perspectives from research-support professionals to identify current experiences, opportunities, challenges and learning needs.

The findings are used to produce freely available educational reports, publications, webinars and learning resources that encourage informed discussion and support learning across the profession.

Topics include

• current understanding and use of AI
• opportunities and challenges
• governance and ethical considerations
• professional learning needs
• emerging practice across the research community.

Take part:
State of AI in Research Operations 2026 Survey

AIRON AI Use Case Hackathons

he AIRON AI Use Case Hackathons are collaborative educational events where participants work together to explore practical examples of artificial intelligence within research operations.

Through guided activities, discussion and peer learning, participants examine real-world scenarios, consider different approaches, reflect on ethical and governance considerations, and share knowledge with colleagues from across the research community.

The educational outputs from each Hackathon—including case studies, learning resources and examples of practice—are shared with the wider community to support AIRON’s charitable purpose of advancing education.

The Hackathons are educational activities. They are not technology development events, consultancy services or commercial product development.

Register your interest:
Register your interest in AIRON AI Use Case Hackathons

AIRON Resource Library

The AIRON Resource Library is a freely accessible collection of educational resources that support learning about artificial intelligence within research operations.

Resources may include:

• guidance documents;
• educational articles;
• practical toolkits;
• case studies;
• webinar recordings;
• educational publications;
• templates;
• recommended reading.

The Resource Library enables individuals and organisations to access educational materials, learn from shared experience and develop a deeper understanding of AI within research operations.

Contribute a resource:
Submit a resource to the AIRON Resource Library

Why Get Involved?

By participating in AIRON’s educational initiatives, you can:

• contribute to shared learning across the research community
• help develop educational resources that benefit others
• share experiences and examples of practice
• participate in informed discussion about the responsible use of AI
• support AIRON’s charitable purpose of advancing education for the public benefit.

Whether you are new to AI or already exploring its use within research operations, AIRON’s initiatives provide opportunities to learn, share knowledge and contribute to a growing educational community.