Michelle ThompsonThe University of Oxford has announced a five-year collaboration with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT.
As part of the partnership, students and staff will gain access to funding and advanced AI tools to support teaching, learning, and research. Additionally, portions of the Bodleian Library’s public collection will be digitized.
Brad Lightcap, OpenAI’s chief operating officer, emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration with academia to develop AI that benefits everyone. Oxford researchers will also receive access to OpenAI’s latest models, including an education-focused version of ChatGPT, along with research grant opportunities for projects involving the company.
A portion of the Bodleian Library’s public collection will be digitized as part of the initiative.
The university stated that the partnership would help advance research in fields like health and climate change.
Prof. Patrick Grant, Oxford’s pro vice-chancellor for research, noted that AI is driving scientific discovery and enabling researchers to handle more complex data. He emphasized Oxford’s commitment to leading AI research and its applications, aiming to produce innovative studies that support both scholars and society in adapting to and effectively utilizing these technologies.
OpenAI developed ChatGPT.
Previously unavailable Bodleian Library collections will be made accessible worldwide through the project.
Librarian Richard Ovenden emphasized the library’s mission to acquire, preserve, and share knowledge for students, researchers, and the public. He highlighted the Bodleian’s long history of innovation, particularly in adopting new technologies.
The partnership stems from Oxford’s involvement in NextGenAI, a collaboration between leading US and UK universities, backed by OpenAI. Brad Lightcap stated that the initiative aims to accelerate research and empower institutions to leverage AI’s transformative potential.
