The University of Oxford and Google have announced a major expansion of their collaboration to embed advanced artificial intelligence tools across the University’s academic and administrative activities. Following a successful pilot, Oxford is now rolling out enhanced access to generative AI models, including Gemini for Education and NotebookLM, to students, faculty, and staff. The full rollout will begin this year.
The initiative builds on a six-month pilot involving hundreds of University academics. During this period, participants presented case studies on using Gemini Pro, NotebookLM, and Google AI Studio to support work ranging from structured documentation and research to technical problem-solving.
Under the new arrangement, Oxford’s colleges and departments can secure Pro licences through their Google Workspace for Education accounts, giving users access to more features such as Deep Research, an AI assistant capable of developing multi-step research plans, scanning hundreds of sources, and synthesising findings into detailed reports with citations. The University emphasises that all AI tools will be made available within its secure enterprise environment, a key factor for protecting data and ethical use.
A central component of the collaboration is Gemini for Education’s Guided Learning mode, which is designed to promote “deep understanding through probing questions and tailored, step-by-step guidance rather than simply providing an answer”. This feature reflects a broader shift in AI integration: rather than replacing traditional study methods, tools like Guided Learning act as interactive companions that help users engage actively with material.
Oxford’s Head of the AI Competency Centre, Alwyn Collinson, said the tools will help ensure researchers and students can “harness AI’s potential to accelerate high-impact research, facilitate breakthroughs, and drive innovation” while using the technology “safely and responsibly” for study and work.
