AI Policy at a Glance
eLife treats AI tools as comparable to imaging or statistical software. Text and data AI use is allowed with disclosure in Materials and Methods. AI-generated images cannot be included due to Creative Commons licensing requirements. AI cannot be listed as co-author.
Text
Writing or editing manuscript text with AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Copilot)
Images
Creating or modifying figures, illustrations, or photos using AI
Data
Using AI to assist with data analysis, computational methods, or code
Review before using
AI use is permitted only in certain contexts. Review the conditions above or contact the journal to confirm before submitting.
Detailed Policy Findings
AI TEXT / WRITING
AllowedNo specific policy language found for this category. Consult the source policy directly.
AI IMAGES / FIGURES
RestrictedAI DATA ANALYSIS
AllowedNo specific policy language found for this category. Consult the source policy directly.
Disclosure Guidance
Most AI policies require disclosure of AI use in your submission.
Requirements (Where to Disclose)
AI tools must be clearly described in the Materials and Methods section. AI cannot serve as co-author.
From the Source Policy
Template Language
This is sample language only. Always review the publisher’s specific disclosure requirements before submitting. Requirements vary and may change. BioRender is actively developing an automated disclosure workflow that will provide clarity to publishers on exactly how AI was used, if at all, on its platform and the degree to which it is copyright safe.
AI Text
Required by policyGeneric template — this publisher may have specific formatting requirements. Check the disclosure requirements above.
Methods section
AI-assisted tools (including [specify tool, e.g., ChatGPT]) were used in the preparation of this manuscript for [specify purpose, e.g., language editing/drafting/summarization]. All AI-generated content was reviewed and verified by the authors. The authors take full responsibility for the integrity of the work.
AI Images
RestrictedAI-assisted images are permitted only in specific cases. Contact the editorial office.
AI Data
Required by policyGeneric template — this publisher may have specific formatting requirements. Check the disclosure requirements above.
Methods section
AI-assisted tools were used for [specify use, e.g., data analysis/statistical processing/code generation]. All AI outputs were independently verified by the research team. Raw data and analysis scripts are available at [repository].
Additional Policy Details
Peer Review Restrictions
Reviewers must not use AI tools to review manuscripts due to confidentiality concerns.
Exemptions
Standard spell-check and grammar tools are generally exempt.
Enforcement
Authors are accountable for their contributions and the proper use of AI tools and reporting of AI tool-output.
Source & Verification
Policy last updated
Not published on policy page
Policy checked on
April 1, 2026
Policies are verified periodically but may change without notice. This tool does not constitute legal advice. Always confirm with the original policy page before submitting.
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