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arXiv · 2508.00952

Academic Vibe Coding: Opportunities for Accelerating Research in an Era of Resource Constraint

Matthew G Crowson·Leo Celi A. Celi
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Abstract

Academic laboratories face mounting resource constraints: budgets are tightening, grant overheads are potentially being capped, and the market rate for data-science talent significantly outstrips university compensation. Vibe coding, which is structured, prompt-driven code generation with large language models (LLMs) embedded in reproducible workflows, offers one pragmatic response. It aims to compress the idea-to-analysis timeline, reduce staffing pressure on specialized data roles, and maintain rigorous, version-controlled outputs. This article defines the vibe coding concept, situates it against the current academic resourcing crisis, details a beginner-friendly toolchain for its implementation, and analyzes inherent limitations that necessitate governance and mindful application.

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Matthew G Crowson, Leo Celi A. Celi. 2025-08-01. Academic Vibe Coding: Opportunities for Accelerating Research in an Era of Resource Constraint. https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.00952

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