This paper begins with a primer on AI, including an introduction to key definitions and concepts, the state of AI in Canada, and an examination of key opportunities and risks of using AI technologies. The second part of the paper presents a short summary and discussion of legal and policy frameworks that guide the use of AI for Science Based Departments and Agencies (SBDAs).

To complement the information derived from the literature, the IOG prepared and disseminated a short survey to members of the federal scientific and research community to collect information about current uses and applications of AI in science-based departments and agencies. The survey results are presented in part III. Part IV contains a discussion of Canada’s AI policy landscape as it specifically relates to the conduct of government science.

The paper concludes with some questions for further discussion and research. An account of all technical components referred to throughout the paper can be found in the glossary of terms.