A significant increase in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in scientific research has been observed globally, with one in three postdoctoral researchers now employing large language models (LLMs) for tasks such as literature reviews, coding, and editing. This trend indicates a burgeoning 'golden age of discovery' in laboratories. Recent evaluations of AI models, including ChatGPT-4 and Claude 3.5 Sonnet, reveal varied writing styles, with ChatGPT being more direct and structured, while Claude offers a more conversational approach. Despite the emergence of numerous models capable of competing with OpenAI's GPT-4, experts suggest that none have surpassed its performance since its release in March 2023. Key insights from recent research highlight that while GPT-4 excels in processing both images and text, it is not infallible and can produce errors, necessitating cautious use. Additionally, advancements in fine-tuning LLMs with human feedback and innovative techniques are enhancing their effectiveness and safety, aligning them more closely with human expectations.