GenAI Training for Ecological and Environmental Researchers

Abstract

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and GitHub CoPilot are rapidly transforming ecological and environmental science, yet many researchers lack a foundational understanding of these tools and the time or resources to learn them. To bridge this gap, we propose “AI in a Day”: a suite of open-access, community-driven training modules that equip scientists to integrate AI effectively and responsibly into their research. Delivered through ESIIL workshops, conferences, and online platforms, modular materials will provide practical, up-to-date guidance that democratizes AI knowledge and empowers scientists across career stages to engage fully in the evolving landscape of AI-enabled ecology and environmental science.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Nate Emery (he/him) is the Associate Director of STEM Education in the Office of Teaching and Learning at UC Santa Barbara. He has a PhD in plant ecophysiology and training in biology and data science education research. He is presenting on behalf of his fellow Co-PIs: Li Kui, Sarah Elmendorf, Nick Lyon, and Stevan Earl.

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