In recent months, artificial intelligence has entered the daily work of researchers faster than many expected. At Wroclaw Medical University, the Scopus AI tool—available for the past three months—is already reshaping how scientists work with academic literature. At the same time, experts emphasize that it remains a support tool, not a substitute for critical analysis.
Data from early 2026 show a dynamic increase in usage. The total number of Scopus searches at the university rose from 811 in December to nearly 1,500 in March, with Scopus AI queries already accounting for around 10% of all searches.
Scopus AI operates on the Scopus platform, which includes over 100 million records and tens of thousands of scientific journals. It allows users to ask questions in natural language and generates synthesized answers supported by references to indexed publications. A key feature is the Concept Map, which enables users to quickly understand the structure of a research topic and the relationships between concepts.
As representatives of the Wroclaw Medical University Library point out, the most significant change concerns not only the speed of work, but also the way knowledge is structured.
“Scopus AI acts as a central hub for initial selection and structuring of materials, enabling a quick orientation in the literature”, says Dominika Sidorska, Director of the University Library.
A similar perspective is shared by Ewa Kapela, Head of the Scientific Information and Promotion Department:
“This is a tool that genuinely supports topic orientation and trend identification, but it does not replace traditional search methods or critical evaluation of sources.“
In practice, this means that Scopus AI shortens the path to understanding the literature, helps identify trends and potential research gaps more quickly, and supports publication strategy planning. Its advanced analytical functions make it possible to identify key publications, authors, and institutions within a given field.
At the same time, the increased volume of results and synthesized summaries require greater user awareness.
“AI expands the scope of literature exploration, but at the same time generates more results that require careful selection and critical evaluation”, emphasizes Ewa Kapela.
This tension between speed and quality is now one of the key challenges. Although Scopus AI relies on reliable, peer-reviewed sources, it does not eliminate the risk of simplifications or misinterpretations. A critical approach to results therefore remains essential.
“Scopus AI can shorten the path to literature review and hypothesis generation, but primarily at an exploratory level—it does not replace in-depth analysis“, adds Dominika Sidorska.
In this context, academic libraries are playing an increasingly important role. They are becoming not only providers of tools, but also guides in their responsible use. Training sessions, consultations, and support in the critical evaluation of AI-generated results are becoming integral parts of information services.
At Wroclaw Medical University, Scopus AI is still establishing its position. However, all signs indicate that in the coming months it will become one of the key tools supporting research—provided it is used consciously.