Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI) has rapidly transitioned from an experimental technology into a working companion for researchers across disciplines. Tools built on large language models (LLMs) and related generative architectures can now draft text, summarise literature, suggest hypotheses, generate code, and assist with data interpretation, changing how research is planned, conducted, and communicated. This paper examines how Generative AI is being applied to enrich the research process, drawing on recent academic literature published between 2023 and 2025.