Guidance and tools for secure, ethical use of AI at HMS
Generative AI offers new opportunities in research, education, and productivity — but it must be used thoughtfully.
This page builds on Initial guidelines for the use of Generative AI tools at Harvard to outline HMS recommendations and approved tools to help you use AI responsibly, in line with policies and data security requirements. Learn how to choose the right tool, meet compliance standards, and protect confidential information.
Responsible use
Use AI tools thoughtfully and within academic boundaries.Responsible AI use at HMS includes ethical, transparent practices:
- Verify outputs. AI-generated content may be incorrect or fabricated. Always fact-check before using or publishing results.
- Uphold academic integrity. Follow faculty or student handbook policies. Be transparent with students and colleagues about acceptable use.
- Cite AI contributions appropriately in research and academic work. Refer to guidance from COPE and WAME for citation standards.
Data and security
Protect sensitive information and maintain compliance.Before using any generative AI tools, ensure you're complying with Harvard’s data and security policies:
- Avoid entering confidential information (Level 2 and above) into public-facing AI platforms.
- Classify your data appropriately. Most AI tools are approved for Level 3 and below. For Level 4 or regulated data, contact hms-it-ai@hms.harvard.edu before proceeding.
- Consult HMS IT for support with data security, platform vetting, and vendor risk. Use this form to request help.
- Comply with regulations such as HIPAA, FERPA, and sponsor-specific data requirements.
- Legal and funding agency compliance is essential. Align AI use with NIH, COPE, and other relevant bodies.
- Beware of phishing. Generative AI can be used for malicious purposes like phishing. Stay alert and report suspicious messages to phishing@harvard.edu.
- Procurement support for licensing terms or contracts is available by sending an email message to procurement@hms.harvard.edu.
Getting started
Steps to access and begin using generative AI tools.To begin using AI tools at HMS, choose the right tool based on your use case:
- Text and code creation – Harvard AI Sandbox, ChatGPT Edu
- Image creation – Harvard AI Sandbox, Adobe Firefly
- Compare models – Harvard AI Sandbox
- Custom GPTs – ChatGPT Edu
- Information retrieval – ChatGPT Edu, Harvard AI Sandbox
- App development – HUIT API Portal, HMS Azure AI, or Longwood Cluster
After you have selected the tools that you need:
- Complete the required training listed on the tool's service page.
- Submit a request form to gain access to the tool.
- Contact support teams with any issues or questions related to the tools.
Supported tools
Compare features, use cases, and access requirements.The following table summarizes key information about available generative AI tools at HMS:
| Tool | Use cases | Data security level | Eligibility | Training required | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI Sandbox | Create content; compare models | Level 3 | Quad-based faculty, staff, MD/DMD students; some others via courses | Yes | Covered by HMS IT |
| ChatGPT Edu | Text, images, custom GPTs, info retrieval | Level 3 | Licensed users with specific needs | Yes | Covered by HMS IT |
| Adobe Firefly | Image creation | Level 3 | Users with Adobe Creative Cloud | No | Included in Adobe license |
| HMS Azure AI | Azure OpenAI API access, large dataset analysis | Level 4 | HMS IT, project developers | No | Varies with use |
| HUIT API Portal | API access for app development | Level 3 | HMS IT, project developers | No | Varies with use |
| Longwood Cluster | High-compute AI workloads | Level 4 | HMS researchers | No | Free for DIA winners |