Abstract

In today's evolving research landscape, AI offers transformative opportunities for research managers to enhance research management practices. This abstract analyses how AI-powered tools can predict emerging research trends and strategically align research portfolios with future funding opportunities, addressing the unique challenges faced by research institutions. A research office plays a pivotal role in identifying new funding opportunities, streamlining grant processes, and supporting faculty in developing proposals. By harnessing AI’s capacity to analyse large datasets—including global publications, funding opportunities, and patent filings—new insights can be uncovered into emerging scientific fields that are likely to attract substantial future funding. This foresight enables research managers to strategically align the institute’s research priorities with national and international funding trends, ensuring that faculty projects remain competitive and impactful. In addition, AI-driven tools can help optimize the grant-writing process by analysing patterns in successful applications across various disciplines. These tools can provide faculty with actionable insights, helping them structure their proposals more effectively and increase their chances of securing funding. The AI system could also assist in real-time tracking of proposal progress and fund utilization, reducing administrative burdens while ensuring compliance with funding agency requirements. It is important and timely for research managers to adapt to AI and integrate it into their routine processes to manage the diverse research portfolio of a research institute, enabling more efficient resource allocation and collaboration.