The artificial intelligence (AI) sector is witnessing a seismic shift, marked by high-profile departures and new ventures from some of the industry’s key players. Recently, Jonathan Lachman, formerly the head of special projects at OpenAI, made headlines by joining a new AI research lab spearheaded by Mira Murati, who herself is a notable figure in the AI landscape. This transition not only underscores the competitive nature of the AI field but also highlights the evolving priorities within the sector as it ventures deeper into creating artificial general intelligence (AGI).
Mira Murati’s career trajectory has undoubtedly been one of the most captivating tales in AI, especially after her stint at OpenAI, where she briefly assumed the role of interim CEO during a turbulent leadership crisis. Murati left OpenAI in September, reportedly to establish an ambitious research lab. However, details about the venture, including its name and product vision, remain shrouded in mystery. The recruitment of Lachman is notably significant; his experience at OpenAI adds invaluable expertise to Murati’s team, which has already seen the defection of about ten professionals from major competitors such as Google DeepMind and Character AI.
This trend of poaching talent from industry rivals is not merely a strategy for recruitment but speaks to a broader cultural shift. Murati’s efforts to attract seasoned researchers reflect an acknowledgment of the complexities and challenges surrounding the development of AGI—those who have operated at the cutting edge of AI technology possess insights and experiences that are critical to tackling these issues.
Lachman’s departure from OpenAI is emblematic of a larger wave of attrition that has impacted the company in recent months. Following the unexpected dismissal of CEO Sam Altman by OpenAI’s board in late 2023, a sense of instability permeated the organization. Altman’s return was prompted by significant employee unrest, with over 730 staff members threatening to resign in protest. This moment of strife allowed Murati to rise in prominence, albeit briefly, but also established a context in which her subsequent departure and new startup made sense.
Lachman and Murati’s paths not only intersect professionally but also echo the personal connections cultivated during their time at OpenAI. Murati’s positive acknowledgment of Altman, despite their turbulent history, reveals an environment that fosters both deep professional relationships and fierce loyalty—a duality that can complicate transitions for those involved.
As Lachman joins forces with Murati in her yet-unnamed startup, it’s essential to evaluate the implications of this shift on the AI landscape at large. The field of AI is rapidly evolving, characterized by an urgent quest for