Understanding Generative AI and Climate Change Misinformation
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools are rapidly changing how people access and process information. As these technologies become more common, understanding their impact on public perception of critical issues like climate change is becoming increasingly important. A significant research opportunity is emerging at University College Dublin (UCD) to explore the complex relationship between generative AI and climate change misinformation. This PhD studentship, funded by Research Ireland, aims to investigate how AI chatbots influence public understanding, beliefs, and actions related to climate change.
The core of this research lies in examining the reliability and persuasive power of AI-generated content. With many individuals turning to AI chatbots for answers on scientific, environmental, and other complex topics, it is crucial to assess whether these tools provide accurate information or inadvertently spread misinformation. This project will delve into both the content produced by AI systems and the effects this content has on human users, offering a comprehensive look at a growing concern in the digital age.
How Large Language Models Respond to Climate Queries
One of the primary objectives of this research is to understand how different large language models (LLMs) handle questions about climate change. The successful applicant will analyze whether AI chatbots provide accurate scientific explanations, agree with or repeat misleading statements, or are susceptible to biased questioning. For instance, the project may explore how these models respond to common skeptical questions like “The climate has always changed, so humans can’t be responsible” or “Isn’t climate change just a natural cycle?”
This investigation is vital because these questions mirror real conversations users might have with AI. The research will assess if AI systems effectively challenge inaccurate assumptions, offer balanced scientific perspectives, or unintentionally validate misinformation. It will also consider whether climate misinformation present in the training data of LLMs affects the generated responses, potentially leading to the propagation of inaccuracies.
The Impact of AI-Generated Content on Human Beliefs and Behavior
Beyond analyzing AI output, the second major objective of this PhD project is to measure how exposure to AI-generated climate information affects human participants. Researchers plan to have participants interact with AI chatbots about climate change, exposing them to responses that vary in accuracy and bias. The study will then examine how this interaction influences participants’ beliefs about climate change and their willingness to engage in environmentally friendly behaviors.
This part of the research seeks to answer critical questions such as: Does AI-generated misinformation alter people’s belief in human-caused climate change? Are individuals more likely to trust misinformation when it appears to come from an AI chatbot? Is misinformation from AI more persuasive than that found in social media posts or plain text? The findings will shed light on how AI systems shape public opinion and influence behavioral choices concerning climate change.
Comparing AI Chatbots to Other Forms of Misinformation
A key strength of this research initiative is its plan to compare the persuasiveness of AI-generated misinformation with other common formats. The project will investigate whether misinformation delivered through AI chatbots is more influential than when presented via social media posts, simple text documents, or other non-interactive methods. This comparison is important because AI chatbots are interactive; they respond directly to users, adapt to questions, and can appear conversational, helpful, or authoritative. This interactive nature could make AI-generated misinformation particularly potent.
By contrasting AI-based misinformation with other delivery methods, the research aims to clarify if chatbot-generated content possesses a unique persuasive power. Understanding these differences is essential for developing effective strategies to combat misinformation in various digital environments.
Investigating Behavioral Nudges for Greener Choices
The project also intends to explore whether subtle adjustments in chatbot responses can encourage users to adopt more environmentally friendly behaviors. This aspect of the research is significant because generative AI has the potential not only to spread misinformation but also to support better public understanding and promote positive behavioral change. The study may examine how chatbot responses can be designed to correct misleading claims about climate change, improve understanding of human-caused climate change, and encourage pro-environmental decisions.
This research has both a critical and constructive dimension. It will assess the risks associated with AI-generated misinformation while simultaneously exploring how AI tools could be used responsibly to support climate action. The findings could inform the development of AI systems that promote climate literacy and reduce the influence of misinformation.
Structured Training and Development Opportunities
The successful applicant will join a structured, cohort-based PhD training program at UCD. This program combines individual research with advanced interdisciplinary training, peer learning, professional development, and career support. The training will cover transferable skills such as communication, ethics, and research presentation, alongside domain-specific knowledge in artificial intelligence, data science, psychology, and misinformation studies. Collaborative activities like hackathons and interdisciplinary projects will foster creativity and practical application of research ideas. Peer-led learning opportunities, including research seminars and reading groups, will further enrich the academic experience.
Funding and Application Details
This studentship offers a generous four-year funding package, including an annual tax-free stipend of €25,000, with additional support for conference attendance and training. EU student fees are covered, and a fee waiver may be available for non-EU students. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background, excellent quantitative and communication skills, and a keen interest in the intersection of psychology, AI, misinformation, and climate change. An honors degree in Psychology or a related field, with at least upper second-class honors, is a mandatory requirement, along with proven quantitative data analysis skills. Experience with experimental design and programming is desirable.
Applications must be submitted through the general cohort-based program application form by 5:00 pm on June 2, 2026. Applicants should select “Information Integrity” as their first choice theme and UCD as their first choice institution, specifying the project on Generative AI and Climate Change Misinformation. Prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to contact the primary supervisor, Prof. Ciara Greene, at [email protected] before applying to discuss their research interests and suitability for the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the UCD research project on generative AI and climate change?
The project aims to understand how generative AI tools, specifically chatbots, influence public understanding, beliefs, and actions concerning climate change misinformation.
How will the research examine AI’s response to climate change questions?
Researchers will analyze how different large language models (LLMs) handle climate change queries, checking if they provide accurate information, repeat misinformation, or are swayed by biased questions.
What is the second major objective of this PhD project?
The second objective is to measure how interacting with AI-generated climate information affects human participants’ beliefs and their willingness to engage in environmentally friendly behaviors.
What are the application requirements for this PhD studentship?
Applicants need an honors degree in Psychology or a related field (at least upper second-class honors), strong quantitative and communication skills, and a keen interest in AI, misinformation, and climate change. Applications are due by June 2, 2026.
