Nikon disqualifies AI-generated winning image in science competition

Nikon has disqualified the winning entry in its "Small World In Motion" scientific photography contest after concerns were raised by other scientists that the submission was not genuine. The company stated that the use of generative AI in the video's composition violated the competition's rules.

The decision follows complaints made to Nikon on its LinkedIn page by a number of scientists, including former judges. They argued that the video, depicting cilia in a child's airway, did not appear to be real. The winning entry came from Dr Ning Xu, from Tsinghua University in China.

Nikon said the decision was made "after thoroughly re-evaluating the video and supporting materials and consulting with members of our judging panel." The firm added, however, that it was not a judgment of the entrant's professional reputation or scientific contributions. Nikon stated it would review the rules and procedures for the annual contest.

The competition, running for 15 years, is specifically for images and videos captured using powerful microscopes. Dr Xu had acknowledged using AI but stated he believed he had acted within the rules and cooperated with Nikon's investigation.