Generative AI tools are becoming increasingly common in research and writing, and many Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates and supervisors have questions about how they can be used responsibly at CDU. The guidance below explains what is permitted, what must be acknowledged, and where to seek further advice. Whether you are a candidate, supervisor, or examiner, these FAQs aim to support ethical, transparent, and policy-aligned use of GenAI in research, ensuring that AI enhances, rather than replaces, original scholarly work.
Questions from HDR students
Can I use ChatGPT or other GenAI tools to help with my research?
Yes, when used ethically and transparently. Assistance must support—not replace—your own intellectual work.
Which tools does CDU endorse?
CDU provides access to the institutional version of Grammarly, which supports grammar and style improvement but has generative AI features disabled. Microsoft Copilot is our preferred GenAI tool. It is available through Office 365 using your CDU credentials (your students.cdu.edu.au account).
Do I have to use Copilot?
No, but we prefer it because it is a closed-source platform, and the data you share is protected by strong privacy and security policies. If you choose to use another GenAI tool, just take care not to share your personal data, the university’s data, or research data.
How much GenAI use is “too much”?
There’s no fixed percentage. If GenAI contributes substantially to idea generation, writing, or analysis, integrity may be compromised. High similarity in text could also indicate overuse.
Can I use a plagiarism detector on my work before submission?
Of course. HDR students are allowed to use iThenticate to check their work. However, detectors often produce unreliable results. Instead, focus on transparency and include a declaration of GenAI use.
Do I need to acknowledge GenAI use?
Yes—clearly. You should include a statement in your thesis (e.g., in methodology or acknowledgments) describing how AI tools were used. Ask your supervisor about this.
What happens if I breach integrity rules?
The Student Academic Integrity Policy and the Responsible Conduct of Research Policy outline penalties ranging from warnings, mandatory revisions, to candidature termination depending on severity.
I’m still unsure about the policies—can I talk to someone?
Yes. Consult your principal supervisor, the Research Degrees team, or the Language & Learning team for advice.
Questions from HDR supervisors
Should I allow my student to use GenAI tools?
Yes—if use is appropriate, declared, and aligns with CDU policies on academic integrity, higher degree by research, and responsible research.
Can I use GenAI to read, critique, or offer feedback on student work?
No. Feedback should reflect your expertise; excessive reliance on AI-generated comments may undermine the authenticity of supervision.
Should I use AI detectors on student work?
iThenticate checks are required at certain milestones, with supervisors and candidates reviewing reports together, then lodging them with the Graduate Research School. Read more about this in the Supervisory Charter. Outside of the milestone checks, you can use detectors at your discretion, ensuring that you clearly discuss expectations with students and require documentation of any tool use.
What happens if my student is found to breach academic integrity?
Supervisors are typically not penalised unless they are involved or negligent. However, you’re expected to guide students on appropriate research and AI use.
Should I encourage GenAI use?
CDU encourages the ethical use of GenAI in learning, and you are invited to do the same, but always highlight critical scrutiny, correct attribution, and verification.
Questions from external examiners
How can I tell if GenAI was used in a thesis?
Students should disclose AI use in methodology or acknowledgements.
Can I use GenAI to assess or critique candidate work?
No. Examiners must apply their own academic judgement. AI should not participate in the evaluation process.
Is GenAI use permitted in CDU theses?
Yes, within limits. GenAI tools may be used to support the research and writing process, but their use must be transparent, appropriately acknowledged, and consistent with CDU’s academic integrity policy and values. In short, GenAI tools may assist but should not replace the candidate’s original intellectual contribution.
What do I do if I suspect inappropriate GenAI use?
Contact the Dean of Graduate Studies or the Research Degrees team. Do not rely on AI detectors; follow CDU’s formal process for suspected breaches.
Relevant CDU policies and resources
Further reading
Kingsley, D. (2023). Major publishers are banning ChatGPT from being listed as an academic author. What’s the big deal? The Conversation.
UNESCO. (2023). ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence in higher education: Quick start guide.
Your valuable opinion
Did you know CDU Language and Learning Advisors offer a range of study support options?
https://www.cdu.edu.au/library/language-and-learning-support
