AI Adoption Jumps to 84% Among Researchers as Expectations Undergo Significant 'Reality Check'

Wiley (NYSE: WLY), a global leader in authoritative content and research intelligence, today announced key findings from its second ExplanAItions study, revealing a major course correction taking place.

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The comprehensive study of more than 2,400 researchers worldwide finds that researchers remain optimistic about AI, with 85% reporting that it has improved their efficiency, and close to three-quarters saying it has enhanced both the quantity and quality of their work. Overall usage of AI tools surged from 57% in 2024 to 84% in 2025, including specific use for research and publication tasks, which grew significantly to 62% from 45%.

However, while AI usage has surged dramatically, researchers are significantly scaling back their expectations of what AI can currently do as they gain firsthand experience, moving beyond hype toward nuanced, evidence-based adoption. Last year, researchers believed AI already outperformed humans for over half of potential use cases presented. This year, that figure dropped to less than one-third.

“We're witnessing a profound maturation in how researchers approach AI as surging usage has caused them to recalibrate expectations dramatically,” said Jay Flynn, Wiley EVP & General Manager, Research & Learning. “Wiley is committed to giving researchers what they need most right now: clear guidance and purpose-built tools that help them use AI with confidence and impact.”

Adoption Grows Alongside Informed Caution
Increased hands-on experience has bred more informed caution among researchers, with concerns about potential inaccuracies and hallucinations rising significantly from 51% to 64%. Privacy and security concerns have similarly intensified, climbing from 47% to 58%. This evolution reflects a maturing research community moving beyond initial enthusiasm toward a more nuanced understanding of present limits and future potential.

Accessibility Presents a Challenge
Researchers are more likely to rely on general-purpose AI tools rather than specialized ones for science and research, with 80% using mainstream tools like ChatGPT compared to just 25% using AI research assistants. The root of this disparity lies partially in awareness, with only 11% of researchers on average having heard of the specialized research tools surveyed. Most researchers (70%) are using a freely accessible tool, even if they are among the nearly half (48%) who also have access to a paid solution. This suggests that many researchers are employing a patchwork of solutions to try to meet their needs.