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New Report Highlights Growth in Use of AI by Peer Reviewers

New Report Highlights Growth in Use of AI by Peer Reviewers

January 2026

In a new white paper, the publisher Frontiers states that over half of all researchers globally have used AI for peer review. Based on a survey of roughly 1,600 researchers, the figure represents a marked increase in the use of AI for this purpose; only 24% stated they had used AI for peer review in 2024. 

The survey results reveal several additional trends and insights into how AI is used in peer review activities:

  • AI is used for peer review more often in China (with 77% of researchers using AI) and Africa (65%) than in North America (31%) and Europe (46%).
  • Early-career researchers use AI in peer review at a higher rate (61%) than their more senior colleagues (45%).
  • Researchers cited using AI in peer review most often for report writing, with 59% stating they had used AI for this purpose; summarizing article findings (29%); and flagging misconduct (28%).

According to the report authors, the study shows that although researchers are using AI more than ever, they are still not fully aware of its potential to save time and support more robust research, and many have concerns around the accuracy of AI tools and their potential for misuse. The report calls for better training for researchers and greater transparency around the use of AI and closes with a framework for developing an AI governance policy. 

For more information, readers can download the full report on the Frontiers website.