Join our monthly “Let’s Talk AI” Club sessions! As the field of generative AI rapidly evolves, research administrators face the challenge of staying informed. Our sessions feature expert speakers who delve into practical applications of generative AI tools. Learn how to harness this technology effectively in research administration. Engage in group discussions and get your questions answered during our Q & A period.
March's AI Club discussion:
Strategic Adoption of Generative AI in Research Administration: Pathways for 2026 and Beyond
Generative AI is no longer just a tool for drafting text. Its role in research administration is rapidly evolving across the entire lifecycle, from building research partnerships and developing proposals to supporting compliance, negotiating agreements, managing data, and mobilizing knowledge. Beyond streamlining workflows and enhancing strategic decision-making, it also has the potential to redefine team roles and influence organizational structures.
This session will provide an up-to-date environmental scan of how generative AI is being applied in research administration, spotlight emerging trends, and showcase global examples of AI integration. We will also explore the risks, limitations, and ethical considerations related to AI implementation, including data security, privacy concerns, accuracy, equity, evolving funder guidance, and more.
Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences, concerns, and ideas. The session will conclude with a discussion of possible next steps for our research administration community, including guideline development, training priorities, and pilot initiatives.
Whether you are already using AI extensively or just beginning to explore its possibilities, this presentation will offer practical insights and a balanced perspective to support informed, responsible adoption.
Future Meeting dates:
March 11, 2026, 12-1pm EST.
April 15, 2026, 12-1pm EST.
*registering for this event will enroll you in all Let's Talk AI Club Meetings until March 31, 2026*
Organizers: Karen Mosier and Bonnie Zink
Karen E. Mosier
Research Coordinator
Department of Surgery/University of Saskatchewan
Bonnie Zink
Knowledge Mobilization and Community-Based Learning Specialist
SK-NEIHR
March Presentation: Dr. Leila Tang
Dr. Leila Tang is an International Research Specialist in the International Office at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). She brings extensive experience in facilitating international research collaborations, advising on global funding schemes and application strategies, and enhancing the quality and compliance of international research proposals.
Leila is passionate about exploring emerging trends in AI technology and developing strategies to integrate generative AI into research administration in an effective and responsible way. She has delivered several presentations and talks on these topics within USask, receiving positive feedback from participants.
Leila earned her PhD degree in Communication Studies, focusing on the paradigm shift in organizational communication during the Web 2.0 era. Prior to moving to Canada, Leila worked for more than a decade in the higher education sector in Hong Kong and China and served as a faculty member in Communication Studies at a leading Chinese university.
