Adapting peer review for the future: Digital disruptions and trust in peer review

Abstract

Key points: Academia is undergoing transformation with rapid technological advancements, global collaboration, and the rise of AI. Maintaining research integrity is paramount in the face of new challenges and opportunities. The peer review process, vital for research integrity, is strained due to the high volume of academic papers. Cactus Communication's (CACTUS) global survey during Peer Review Week 2022 gathered insights from 685 participants on research integrity and peer review. Survey participants emphasized the importance of peer review in detecting various issues, including plagiarism and questionable research practices. Actions taken in response to integrity concerns varied, with some participants seeking guidance from colleagues or informing journal editors. Digital innovations, especially AI‐driven tools, promise to revolutionize peer review processes, from manuscript screening to reviewer selection and evaluation. AI tools like Chat GPT can aid authors in improving writing quality and assist reviewers in generating detailed feedback. Concerns about data privacy and the need for a balance between human expertise and AI assistance are raised in the context of peer review. AI plagiarism detection tool scan complement human efforts, providing an additional layer of scrutiny. Increased digital innovation allows for flexible review formats, international collaboration, and heightened transparency in the review process. The integration of AI into peer review holds the potential to enhance efficiency and objectivity but raises concerns about bias and transparency. Guidelines, bias mitigation measures, accountability mechanisms, and ongoing training are essential for the responsible use of AI in peer review. Encouraging peer review systems to embrace innovation and ethical AI is crucial for adapting to changing dynamics while upholding core principles of research integrity.