Rethinking AI for Science: An Evolution From Data‐Driven to Data‐Centric Framework

The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have found applications across a multitude of disciplines, including the scientific domain. Yet, the dominant focus on model‐centric AI often overlooks the critical role that data plays, thereby limiting its effectiveness in scientific investigations. This paper advocates for a transition to a data‐centric viewpoint, especially within the framework of AI applied to scientific advancements. The paper outlines the contrasting philosophies of model‐centric and data‐centric AI, highlighting the latter's commitment to data strategies. It explores a range of techniques that bolster the data‐centric framework. Furthermore, the paper presents an overview of key milestones in AI technology, the significance and the changing role of data‐centric AI, and the current state of research in this emerging field.