A new white paper, The State of AI Use Among Researchers, released by Springer Nature in collaboration with Fudan University and the Shanghai Academy of AI for Science, indicates that artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into early stages of research workflows. Based on more than 10,400 qualified global responses, the findings show that nearly half of researchers report frequent use of AI for information gathering and editing, underscoring its growing role in shaping how research is initiated. Usage remains lower for tasks such as peer review and submission decisions, where accountability and professional judgment continue to be central.
The data highlights a clear career-stage difference. Approximately 48% of early-career researchers reported frequent AI use for information discovery and paper improvement, compared with 34% of more established researchers. This suggests evolving practices in research and points to the potential role of publishers in supporting responsible and effective AI adoption.
The report also provides insights into broader trends across the global research community:
General-purpose tools dominate usage, accounting for 75.9% of mentions, while specialized tools for writing, editing, or literature discovery show lower engagement.
Institutional support remains limited, with only 11% of respondents reporting funding from their institutions. Most rely on free tools or personal payment.
Concerns about reliability persist, as nearly two-thirds expressed satisfaction with AI for content discovery but noted ongoing doubts about accuracy and trustworthiness.
Springer Nature’s Chief Product Officer, Saskia Steinacker, emphasized that understanding researcher use of AI is essential to ensure adoption remains community-led. She noted that collaboration with partners and listening to researchers helps in developing tools that have meaningful impact. Steinacker added that while AI demonstrates value in discovery and navigating complex information, trust, transparency, and verification remain critical.
The white paper is positioned as part of Springer Nature’s broader effort to understand researcher needs and provide guidance on AI use. The company has reported on its AI strategy and development through its AI hub, annual report, and media center.
The full report, The State of AI Use Among Researchers, is available via Nature Research Intelligence in partnership with Fudan University and the Shanghai Academy of AI for Science.
Click here to read the original press release.
