Policy on Generative AI and AI-Assisted Tools

The IEM Journal supports the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and AI-assisted technologies in engineering research and academic writing. These tools can help authors work more efficiently and improve clarity, but they must be used with caution and professional judgement. This policy guides authors, editors, reviewers, and readers on how AI may be used in preparing manuscripts submitted to the IEM Journal.

1. Guiding Principles

Generative AI can assist with language, organisation, and information processing, but it cannot replace human expertise, originality, and critical thinking. Authors are fully responsible for every part of their manuscript, regardless of whether AI tools were used during preparation.

2. Responsibilities of Authors

2.1 Responsible Use of Tools

Authors may use AI tools to support writing and research tasks. However, they must ensure that:

  • The tools do not compromise confidential or unpublished data.

  • No sensitive, personal, or copyrighted content is uploaded into the system.

  • Outputs generated by AI are carefully reviewed for factual accuracy and relevance.

  • Any AI-generated text is thoroughly edited and integrated using the author’s own knowledge and analysis.

2.2 Verification and Accuracy

AI outputs may contain errors, biases, or fabricated information. Authors must:

  • Check all AI-generated statements, calculations, and references.

  • Ensure the manuscript reflects their own interpretation and insights.

  • Avoid relying on AI tools to generate data, conclusions, or technical arguments without validation.

2.3 Protection of Intellectual Property

Authors must ensure that the use of AI tools does not lead to unintentional sharing of:

  • Proprietary information

  • Copyrighted materials

  • Unpublished research findings

Manuscripts must remain original, ethical, and compliant with IEM Journal policies.

3. Required Disclosure

Any use of AI or AI-assisted tools in developing the manuscript must be disclosed transparently.

Authors must include a short statement titled:

“Declaration of Generative AI and AI-Assisted Tools in the Writing Process”

This declaration should describe:

  • The name of the tool(s) used

  • How the tool was used

  • How the authors verified and controlled the output

Routine proofreading tools (grammar or spell-checkers) do not require a declaration.

If AI was used as part of the research method—for example, in data analysis or simulation—this must be described in the Methods section.

4. Authorship Rules

AI tools cannot be named as authors.

Authorship requires:

  • Human judgement

  • Ability to interpret data

  • Accountability for accuracy

  • Approval of the final manuscript

These responsibilities cannot be fulfilled by AI.

All listed authors must meet the IEM Journal’s authorship criteria, and each author is accountable for the integrity of the work.

5. Use of AI in Images, Figures, and Visual Material

5.1 Prohibited Uses

AI-generated or AI-modified images, figures, or engineering diagrams are not allowed for submitted manuscripts, unless part of a validated research method. This includes:

  • Images created solely by AI

  • Figures altered using generative AI

  • AI-produced conceptual artwork

Minor, non-substantive adjustments (brightness, contrast, cropping) are allowed if they do not change the scientific content.

5.2 Research-Based Exceptions

If an AI tool is part of the research methodology, for example, machine learning image analysis, simulation models, or automated feature detection, the authors must:

  • Disclose the tool, version, and process

  • Describe the method clearly enough for others to reproduce

  • Supply original (non-AI) images or raw data when requested

5.3 Editorial Artwork

AI-generated artwork for covers, graphical abstracts, or promotional images is not permitted.

6. IEM Journal’s Use of AI

The IEM Journal may use AI-assisted systems to support administrative and editorial tasks (e.g., language checks, plagiarism screening, or workflow management).
These tools will always operate under human supervision and in alignment with ethical and responsible use standards.

7. Summary of Key Requirements

  • AI may assist writing, but cannot replace human judgment or authorship.

  • All significant use of AI must be disclosed clearly.

  • Authors must verify the accuracy and reliability of AI-generated outputs.

  • AI cannot be used to create or modify images unless it is part of the research method.

  • Authors remain fully responsible for the originality, accuracy, and ethical integrity of their manuscripts.