JOINSpotlight on AI, policy, and trust: a conversation with IJsbrand Jan Aalbersberg ahead of the STM US Conference
As the STM US Conference approaches, we’re spotlighting the leading voices who are helping shape the future of research communication. One such voice is IJsbrand Jan Aalbersberg—visionary thinker, long-time STM leader, and current consultant with RIAIT. With a career marked by driving innovation and collaboration, IJsbrand Jan brings a deep, nuanced perspective to one of the most pressing intersections in scholarly publishing today: AI, policy, and trust.
IJsbrand Jan (IJJ) discusses the session “AI, Policy and Trust: Making it Work”—a discussion that unpacks how emerging technologies and evolving policies can converge to support trustworthy research. In this brief Q&A, he challenges common assumptions, highlights the power of collective action, and outlines why the responsible integration of AI isn’t just necessary—it’s transformative.
QI: What’s the biggest misconception about AI, policy and trust?
IJJ: A misconception might be that AI only jeopardises trust in research. I believe that AI and AI policies will help the research community do higher-quality research (and in completely new directions) and offer effective means to increase research trust.
Q2: What’s one trend in the field that excites you right now?
IJJ: The public debate on these matters is bringing together passionate contributors to research and research communication. They are eager to find out what to do with AI and AI policies to advance trustworthy knowledge.
Q3: Why is this session relevant for STM professionals?
IJJ: Anybody working in the STM community doesn’t need an explanation of why AI, policy and trust by themselves are important. In combining the three, they will further strengthen each other — and the session will show examples of how that can be done.
Q4: If attendees take away one thing, what should it be?
IJJ: The application of AI and the creation of policies for AI have the potential to improve trust in research.
Q5: What are you most excited about for this year’s conference?
IJJ: Meeting like-minded people that care about optimising trust in research through AI implementation and policies.
Join us in DC at the STM US Conference 2025 to further this conversation in person — it’s not too late!