Agent4S: The Transformation of Research Paradigms from the Perspective of Large Language Models

TL;DR

This paper proposes Agent4S, a new paradigm using large language model-driven agents to automate scientific research workflows, aiming to revolutionize scientific discovery as the fifth paradigm.

Contribution

It introduces a five-level classification framework for Agent4S, outlining a progression from basic automation to fully autonomous AI scientists.

Findings

Defines a five-level classification for Agent4S

Outlines a roadmap from simple automation to autonomous AI scientists

Proposes Agent4S as the next scientific paradigm

Abstract

While AI for Science (AI4S) serves as an analytical tool in the current research paradigm, it doesn't solve its core inefficiency. We propose "Agent for Science" (Agent4S)-the use of LLM-driven agents to automate the entire research workflow-as the true Fifth Scientific Paradigm. This paper introduces a five-level classification for Agent4S, outlining a clear roadmap from simple task automation to fully autonomous, collaborative "AI Scientists." This framework defines the next revolutionary step in scientific discovery.