Building Research Software in the Age of gAI

This presentation was prepared for: University of Cape Town's FHS Symposium on Tech-Enhanced Teaching and Research Friday, 9 October 2026 | 08:00–12:30 Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town Abstract This session explores how generative AI is affecting research software engineering, drawing on emerging international discussions, recent survey data, and practical experience. It will highlight how research software engineers currently use AI, along with the opportunities, uncertainties, and challenges this creates for research practice. The presentation will conclude with an audience discussion to share experiences and consider what responsible and useful adoption of generative AI might look like in our own research environments.