Research Modes

BIOS offers three modes to match different research styles and expertise levels.

Steering Mode (~20 min)

For scientists who want full control.

One iteration at a time. After each cycle, BIOS stops and waits for your input before proceeding. You decide exactly what to explore next, which hypotheses to pursue, and when to pivot.

Best for:

• Experienced researchers with domain expertise
• Hypothesis-driven investigations where you know what you're looking for
• When you want to critically evaluate each step before moving forward
• Learning how BIOS works and understanding its reasoning

This mode is ideal for scientists who want to apply their expertise to guide the research process. You bring the scientific judgment, BIOS brings the speed.

Semi-Autonomous Mode (~60 min)

For researchers who want balance.

BIOS runs up to 5 iterations, pausing after each one to present findings and ask for guidance. You review hypotheses, adjust direction, and decide when to go deeper or pivot.

Best for:

• Exploratory research where direction may evolve
• When you want AI assistance but still want checkpoints
• Collaborative sessions where you're actively engaged
• Most general research workflows

This is the default mode and works well for most users. You stay in the loop without micromanaging every step.

Fully Autonomous Mode (~8 hours)

For hands-off, comprehensive research.

BIOS runs up to 20 iterations autonomously, continuing until it reaches convergence or exhausts productive directions. You provide the question and let BIOS work.

Best for:

• Well-defined research questions with clear scope
• Overnight or background research tasks
• Comprehensive literature reviews
• When you want broad exploration without constant input

This mode works best when you have a clear question and want BIOS to thoroughly explore it. Review the results when it's done rather than guiding each step.

Choosing the Right Mode