RDA and Microsoft White Paper: Data Readiness and Data-Centric AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI), powered by data, is rapidly transforming research by accelerating discovery, reshaping methods, and redefining collaboration. Recognising both its promise and challenges, the Research Data Alliance (RDA) and Microsoft convened two global roundtables in May 2025.  These virtual global events featured keynotes and breakout sessions with participants from across six continents on three core themes: Data Readiness for AI, AI in Research, and AI Governance.

Global data and AI experts provided insights into AI in research and practice through their impactful keynote speeches. Through moderated, interactive discussions, participants highlighted challenges such as gaps in metadata standards, data quality, and limited automation tools. They stressed the need to improve reproducibility, strengthen documentation, and confront ethical issues linked to biased, Anglo-centric datasets. Discussions also underscored the evolving role of researchers, emphasising the importance of human agency and expertise. A common priority was establishing harmonised governance frameworks for responsible, ethical AI use.