John Schulman, co-founder of OpenAI, has left the AI startup Anthropic after just five months. Schulman joined Anthropic last year, citing a desire to focus more on AI alignment and engage in hands-on technical work. In a statement, Schulman explained his decision to leave Anthropic.
I’ve decided to pursue this goal at Anthropic, where I believe I can gain new perspectives and do research alongside people deeply engaged with the topics I’m most interested in,” he said. Schulman made it clear that his departure was not due to a lack of support for alignment research at OpenAI. “On the contrary, company leaders have been very committed to investing in this area,” he stated.
My decision is a personal one, based on how I want to focus my efforts in the next phase of my career.”
Jared Kaplan, Anthropic’s Chief Science Officer, expressed his sentiments on Schulman’s departure. “I’m sad to see John go but fully support his decision to pursue new opportunities,” Kaplan said.
John Schulman joins new venture
Recent reports indicate that Schulman has joined the new startup founded by Mira Murati, former Chief Technology Officer at OpenAI. Schulman confirmed his departure from Anthropic via social media. “Confirming that I left Anthropic last week,” Schulman wrote.
“Leaving wasn’t easy because I enjoyed the stimulating research environment and the kind and talented people I was working with, but I decided to go with another opportunity that I found extremely compelling. I’ll share more details in the coming weeks.”
The details of Schulman’s new role at Murati’s startup have not yet been disclosed. Murati has reportedly been in talks to raise over $100 million for her company, which remains secretive about its specific plans and goals.
Other former OpenAI staff members, including Christian Gibson from the supercomputing team, have also been recruited by Murati’s new venture. The AI community eagerly awaits further updates on this developing story and the impact it may have on the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
