1. Introduction

Lancaster University Careers Assistant (LUCA) is an AI-assisted careers tool in a Proof of Value phase.

These Terms of Use sets out the conditions of use, ensuring that Hidden Gems is used safely, ethically, and in compliance with Lancaster University policies, UK law, and Microsoft’s Responsible AI commitments.

By accessing or using LUCA, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use. If you do not agree, you should not use the service.

These Terms of Use should be read alongside the LUCA Privacy Notice and Acceptable Use Policy.

2. Scope of the Service

Hidden Gems is provided as part of a Proof of Value project. The service, features, and availability may change during this period.

Lancaster University does not guarantee that Hidden Gems will continue beyond the Proof of Value phase or that all features will be available at all times.

2. Scope of the Service

Hidden Gems is available to users who can access iLancaster.

Access may be restricted, suspended, or withdrawn if these Terms and Conditions or related policies are breached.

4. User Responsibilities

When using LUCA, you agree to:

• Use the service lawfully and responsibly
• Provide accurate information when submitting content
• Respect other users and the wider university community
• Comply with Lancaster University policies, codes of conduct, and guidance

You are responsible for any content you submit and for ensuring it complies with applicable policies and laws.

5. Community Contributions

Users may submit suggestions for spaces, events, resources, or ideas.

By submitting content, you confirm that:

• You have the right to submit the content
• The content is accurate to the best of your knowledge
• The content does not include sensitive personal data
• The content does not infringe the rights of others

Lancaster University reserves the right to review, edit, moderate, or remove submitted content at its discretion.

6. Use of Artificial Intelligence

Hidden Gems uses AI technologies to support discovery and recommendation.

AI-generated outputs:

• Are provided for exploratory and informational purposes only
• Should not be treated as authoritative or definitive advice
• Do not replace professional judgement or official guidance

Lancaster University does not accept liability for decisions made solely on the basis of AI-generated suggestions.

7. Availability and Support

Hidden Gems is provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis.

Lancaster University does not guarantee uninterrupted access and may suspend the service for maintenance, updates, or operational reasons.

Support for Hidden Gems is provided through existing ISS channels where appropriate.

8. Intellectual Property

All intellectual property rights in Hidden Gems, including underlying software, design, and content provided by Lancaster University, remain the property of the University or its licensors.

By submitting content, you grant Lancaster University a non-exclusive, royalty-free licence to use, store, modify, and display that content for the purposes of operating and evaluating Hidden Gems.

9. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law:

• Lancaster University excludes liability for loss or damage arising from use of Hidden Gems
• The University is not liable for reliance on AI-generated outputs or user-submitted content
• Nothing in these Terms limits liability where it cannot legally be excluded

10. Suspension and Termination

Lancaster University may suspend or terminate access to Hidden Gems if:

• These Terms and Conditions are breached
• Use of the service poses a security, legal, or operational risk
• The Proof of Value phase ends or the service is withdrawn

11. Changes to These Terms

These Terms and Conditions may be updated as Hidden Gems evolves.

Material changes will be communicated via iLancaster or the Hidden Gems web page.

12. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of England and Wales.