AI tools are becoming more common, and we understand that some people may use them when preparing job applications. As a university, we’re investing in digital skills, including AI and data, because we know how important these technologies are for the future.

However, when you apply for a job here, it’s important that your application is your own. While AI can be useful for things like checking spelling, grammar, or helping to structure your answers, relying on it too much, especially to write your answers, could reduce your chances of being shortlisted. What makes an application stand out is authenticity. Ultimately we’re hiring people, not AI tools, so we want to hear about your real experiences and achievements, not what AI thinks we want to hear.

If you choose to use AI to support your application, this guidance explains how you can use AI tools in your application in a way that we consider acceptable. Using AI in ways that go beyond these guidelines could affect the outcome of your application.

AI in job applications

Acceptable use

• as an editor to help you structure your own ideas in a clear way using frameworks like STAR
• to help you brainstorm examples that showcase your skills
• researching the University and/or the department to better understand the role or learn about our culture
• exploring industry or professional trends to relate your experiences to
• as a tool to check spelling or grammar if you find that useful, but always review its suggestions critically.

Remember

• make sure everything you write is true and personal to you
• be ready to talk about what you’ve written at interview
• check your supporting statements align with your actual experiences
• ensure that you sound like you, not a generic applicant.

Unacceptable use

• copying and pasting answers straight from AI without personalising or editing them
• using AI to try and “sound” perfect. We’d rather hear your voice and understand your real strengths
• inflating or creating skills or experiences you don’t have. We’re interested in your real-life experience
• inputting sensitive data into AI tools, even if you believe it strengthens your example
• using AI as a shortcut to think critically about the job or your own experiences.

Remember

• AI can be a useful tool, but the best applications are honest, personal, and authentic
• we want to get to know the real you. It’s normally clear when parts, or all, of an application aren't genuine, and this usually becomes even more obvious during interviews.
• over reliance on AI could impact your chances of being shortlisted.

AI at interview stage

Your unique experiences, perspective, and personality are what will make you stand out. Be yourself and highlight your genuine skills and experiences during applications and interviews. Remember that AI should not replace your own critical thinking and creativity.

Acceptable use:

• creating practice questions based on specific job descriptions
• carrying out background research and look at current industry trends
• receiving feedback on your communication approach
• building confidence in articulating your strengths and addressing your potential weaknesses

Unacceptable use:

• rehearsing scripted responses that sound artificial
• attempting to use AI during your actual interview
• preparing with fictional examples instead of real experiences

Application support

Visit our application support webpage for further guidance on our job application process.