Oxford University to roll out ChatGPT Edu in new partnership with OpenAI
The University of Oxford has joined a new $50 million partnership with OpenAI and 15 top universities to introduce AI tools and drive research advancements over the next five years. This initiative will provide students and faculty with access to research grant funding, enterprise-level security, and AI technologies to enhance their teaching, learning, and research experiences.
Enhancing AI Capabilities
As part of the collaboration, Oxford University will expand its AI capabilities through the AI & Machine Learning Competency Centre. Researchers at Oxford will benefit from access to OpenAI's latest models, including o1 and 4o, as well as ChatGPT Edu, a secure version designed for academic use. The rollout of ChatGPT Edu to 3,000 academics and staff follows a successful pilot program.
Research Grant Opportunities
OpenAI's NextGenAI initiative will offer research grant funding to Oxford researchers engaged in joint projects with OpenAI. This funding aims to support collaborative research endeavors and drive innovation in the field of artificial intelligence.
Digitization of Public Domain Materials
One of the key projects under this partnership involves digitizing public domain materials from Oxford University's Bodleian Libraries. Previously inaccessible collections will be made searchable and available online, benefiting students and researchers globally. The Bodleian Libraries will digitize 3,500 global dissertations spanning disciplines from 1498 to 1884.
Quotes from University Officials
Anne Trefethen, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Digital at the University of Oxford, expressed excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the opportunities for research enrichment and skill development.
Richard Ovenden, Bodley’s Librarian, emphasized the Bodleian's commitment to knowledge preservation and accessibility through innovative initiatives like the one with OpenAI.
Other universities participating in this partnership include Harvard University in the US and Sciences Po in France.
