Perception, Awareness, and Ethical Use of AI in Scientific Research: A Study Among Healthcare Researchers in Jeddah

Introduction Artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in research workflows, yet evidence on how healthcare researchers perceive and use AI in Saudi Arabia remains limited. This study assessed awareness, use, and ethical perceptions of AI among healthcare researchers in Jeddah. Methods We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional survey using a bilingual, expert-validated questionnaire. Non-probability convenience sampling yielded 1,379 respondents (74.9%). Descriptive statistics and chi-square t-tests examined subgroup differences by gender, education, and research experiences. Results Most participants recognized AI in their research tools (81.8%), while 56.7% reported active use. AI use was higher among postgraduates than bachelor’s holders (72.2% vs 54.5%; p=0.002) and among those with ≥5 years versus <5 years’ experience (70.1% vs 45.3%; p=0.005). Ethical concerns were reported by 47.6%, with higher concern among women than men (60.2% vs 42.1%; p=0.019). Perceived benefits were common: 78.0% agreed AI improved research quality, and 78.6% reported enhanced productivity. Willingness to work in AI-enabled environments reached 77.1%, contingent on safeguards for privacy, authorship, and fairness. Discussion Findings indicate high awareness but only moderate adoption of AI, with usage concentrated among more educated and experienced researchers, alongside notable gender differences in ethical sensitivity. These patterns suggest capability gaps that may limit responsible uptake without targeted support. Conclusion Institutions should embed practical AI literacy, hands-on training, and gender-responsive ethics guidance within research development programs and governance frameworks to translate AI awareness into confident, ethical AI use. Such measures aligns with national priorities and enables safe, equitable integration of AI across healthcare research settings.