The competencies and attitudes towards scientific research are crucial for teacher candidates as one of the basic requirements for professional teachers. Moreover, the power of AI (artificial intelligence) is massively used in many aspects, especially in the academic sector. However, in the Indonesian context, there is still a lack of studies focused on exploring these variables. This paper aims to identify teacher candidates’ attitudes towards scientific research and the relationship between their knowledge and familiarity with AI. The current research involved 268 teacher candidates from various Indonesian universities through the use of both closed-ended and open-ended surveys. The results indicate that teacher candidates exhibit consistently positive attitudes across most dimensions of the research inventory, as well as a high level of knowledge regarding AI; however, exhibit a moderate level of familiarity with the application of AI in education. A significant correlation exists between their attitudes towards scientific research and their knowledge and familiarity with using AI in education. Thematic analysis was then conducted on the open-ended responses, revealing dual perceptions and beliefs about the use of AI in education, which were categorized into two emerging themes: AI as (1) a wonderful tool for research, and (2) dangerous and unethical tools for research. This research suggested the importance of emphasizing research knowledge, attitudes, and skills for Indonesian teachers’ education curriculum, focusing on theoretical and practical competencies, including the use of AI wisely.