<p>Researchers are increasingly encouraged to adopt AI tools, yet there is still a lack of practical guidance on how to use AI without compromising the human essence of scholarly work. This paper addresses this gap by proposing a “start with human, end with human” approach to AI integration in research. At the core of this proposal is the Human–AI–Human cycle, a framework that maintains human agency at both ends of the research process. The cycle begins with the human scholar identifying problems, and formulating research questions and design, which all are grounded in human values and expertise. AI is then employed to assist with data processing, simulating, analyzing, and suggesting. Finally, the process returns to the human scholar, who handles the interpretation, sense-making, ethical review, peer dialogue, and public dissemination, all of which require human agency and accountability. This balanced approach ensures that AI amplifies rather than diminishes human scholar capabilities. It encourages scholars to embrace AI not as a threat, but as a tool that, when used wisely, can enhance, not erode, the soul of scientific inquiry. The implications are significant for research ethics, scientific practices, and the evolving definition of academic labor in the age of AI.</p>