Perplexity makes gift to Northwestern Medill to research AI and journalism

Journalism has navigated numerous technological advances, from the advent of newspapers and radio to the rise of alternative outlets like social media and podcasting. The most recent monumental shift is the introduction of artificial intelligence and its impact not only on how we work but also on how we consume information. As this technology becomes more sophisticated and pervasive, how do we ensure that news publishers thrive as our Internet ecosystem changes? 

We’re excited to announce that Perplexity is making a gift of $250k in support of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications to bolster its research on these critical topics. Led by Medill Professor and Knight Chair in Digital Media Strategy, Jeremy Gilbert, the Knight Lab is already experimenting with ways that AI can support the work journalists do, and how this technology will morph the news industry on a broader scale. 

This research will continue to explore how AI can empower journalism workflows in a way that encourages transparency and accuracy, and additional AI capabilities we can develop to support reporting. The Lab plans will explore ways that generative AI can power tools for journalism and the new ways generative AI can improve news consumers’ experiences with media. In addition to this gift, Medill will receive data, insights, and access to Perplexity employees and publisher partners like The Texas Tribune to augment the Lab’s research. 

“Generative AI is reshaping the journalism landscape,” said Gilbert. “AI is changing the landscape at a rapid pace, and Medill is committed to understanding how the industry will need to evolve and how we can use this technology responsibly. The gift from Perplexity provides vital resources to research AI and media.” 

Says Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas: “AI can be a powerful tool for researching, fact-checking, and improving the accessibility of key reporting, but we need to operate with a framework that prioritizes quality and reliability. I admire the research Medill has done thus far on these topics and appreciate its commitment to further exploring how AI companies can collaborate with news publishers to promote a thriving Internet ecosystem.” 

This gift follows Perplexity’s recently launched Publishers’ Program, which will provide revenue-sharing and other technological benefits to publishers. To learn more about this research or how Perplexity works with publishers, contact publishers@perplexity.ai.