Peer review is overwhelmed—can it survive in the AI era?

The current peer review system is struggling to cope with an exponential increase in research publications, leading to delays, reviewer burnout, and a potential decline in quality. Researchers are increasingly finding it difficult to secure qualified reviewers, with some experiencing rejections due to misunderstandings by overworked or unqualified reviewers. As a result, many are questioning the sustainability of the traditional model and exploring alternative methods of scholarly communication, including informal platforms like blogs and the use of AI tools to assist the review process.

• The number of research papers is increasing exponentially, overwhelming the volunteer peer review system.
• Reviewers are struggling to keep up, leading to delays, frustration, and the risk of unqualified reviews.
• The historical role of peer review in scientific validation and public trust is being challenged.
• Alternative methods such as blogs and preprints are gaining traction, especially in fast-moving fields like AI.
• AI tools are being explored to assist reviewers, but concerns exist about potential misuse and ethical implications.
• Reforms such as paying reviewers, redistributing workload, and divorcing review from journal submission are being considered.
• Despite its challenges, peer review is deeply entrenched, and a complete shift away is unlikely, though the practice may evolve.
  Continue reading https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/08/peer-review-is-overwhelmed-can-it-survive-in-the-ai-era/