Web of Science is an extensive and multidisciplinary service for searching publications and citations. Since the beginning of 2026, HAMK has subscribed to the Web of Science Research Assistant, an add-on that uses generative artificial intelligence. It is a powerful tool for creating an overall picture of familiar and even slightly foreign topics.
Using Web of Science Research Assistant
You can ask the Research Assistant a question in a natural language, after which it compiles a summary of the topic with citations. After the summary, there are often more specific search questions related to the search, which may be helpful in, for example, juggling the topic of the thesis or formulating research questions.
With Research Assistant you can create topic and co-citation maps. The service can also be used to study the most productive and cited authors in the topic area, as well as to monitor the annual publication volumes over time.
How to access the database
You can access the service through HAMK Finna. It is possible to register to the Web of Science, in which case searches can be saved for later use. You can also order notifications of new articles and research papers suitable for the topic through your own account.
Remember source criticism
When using AI-based tools, it is good to keep source criticism in mind, as the quality of the content may vary. However, the Web of Science’s Research Assistant has the advantage of clearly listing the sources on which the summary is based. It is also important to check the original source, especially if you intend to refer to it. Before the summary, you will also find a description of the tool on how the result and the search query are formed. That makes the evaluation of the information easier and provides tools for future information retrieval.
More information
Clarivate’s guidelines provide guidance and tips for using the Research Assistant. The Web of Science Help Center also has various instructional videos to support the use of Web of Science.
The terms of use of the service define what kind of use is allowed.
