PHD 2.0 – New AI Challenges, New Rules, New Actions

Abstract

The rapid integration of AI in academic research represents both an opportunity for positive digital transformation and a significant challenge to the core principles of doctoral studies – authorship, originality and integrity. The unregulated use of AI risks undermining the main purpose of the doctoral degree: the formation of an independent-thinking researcher. With this study, we argue for a structured action plan including: First, a National Framework for Academic Integrity in the Use of AI, embedded in legislative texts and establishing minimum standards in all higher education institutions; Second, mandatory institutional regulations regulating doctoral programs and academic journals, directly linked to the university accreditation processes; Third, a National Registry of Declarations for the Use of AI – a centralized platform integrated with the national anti-plagiarism system to prevent the re-submission of manuscripts assisted by AI; and Fourth, a National Program for Training of PhD Students, Supervisors, and Academic Staff, delivered through doctoral schools and supported by funding from the Ministry of Education and Science. In addition to regulation, true prevention requires a transformed academic environment for conducting doctoral studies. Seven pedagogical and organizational measures are proposed: introductory training in research literacy in the field of artificia l intelligence; structured, step-by-step reviews of dissertations; research journals and portfolios as evidence of authentic authorship; doctoral seminars with anonymous peer review; psychological support and management of academic pressure; shifting the focus of assessment from the final product to a documented process; and positive incentives for transparent and responsible use of AI. The goal is not to eliminate AI from doctoral research, but to cultivate researchers capable of engaging with it critically and ethically. Properly integrat ed, AI has the potential to accelerate doctoral doctoral degree within approximately 24 months. Thus, AI will be a jointly accepted third party that supports literature review, academic writing, and critical thinking. CZU: 004.8:001.891; JEL: A20, I23, O33, I28