Miles Brundage, a prominent policy researcher and senior adviser at OpenAI, has announced his departure from the company to focus on independent research in the nonprofit sector. His decision reflects ongoing shifts within OpenAI, as the company faces internal disagreements and a wave of high-profile exits.
Key Takeaways
Miles Brundage leaves OpenAI to pursue independent AI policy research.
His departure is part of a broader trend of resignations at OpenAI, including key figures like CTO Mira Murati.
Brundage emphasised the need for OpenAI employees to voice concerns about the company's direction.
Background On Miles Brundage
Miles Brundage joined OpenAI in 2018, initially as a research scientist before becoming the head of policy research. He played a crucial role in the responsible deployment of AI systems, particularly language models like ChatGPT. His work included leading initiatives such as OpenAI’s external red teaming programme and developing the first “system card” reports that document AI model capabilities and limitations.
In his recent announcement, Brundage expressed that he believes he can have a greater impact on AI policy and research outside of the industry, where he will have more freedom to publish his findings. He stated, “Part of what made this a hard decision is that working at OpenAI is an incredibly high-impact opportunity.”
OpenAI's Internal Changes
Brundage's exit comes amid significant restructuring at OpenAI. The company is reorganising its economic research division and AGI readiness teams, with Brundage’s responsibilities being redistributed among other divisions. Joshua Achiam, head of mission alignment, will take on some of the AGI readiness projects.
An OpenAI spokesperson expressed support for Brundage’s decision, stating that his independent research could lead to a broader impact on AI policy. However, the spokesperson did not clarify who would take over Brundage’s specific responsibilities.
The Broader Context
Brundage's departure is part of a concerning trend at OpenAI, where several high-profile executives have resigned in recent months. This includes CTO Mira Murati, chief research officer Bob McGrew, and research VP Barret Zoph, all of whom left amid disagreements over the company's direction. Critics have accused OpenAI of prioritising commercial products over AI safety, leading to a culture that some former employees describe as increasingly profit-driven.
In a post on X, Brundage urged OpenAI employees to “speak their minds” about the company’s future, warning against groupthink in decision-making. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a culture of rigorous decision-making, especially as the company faces difficult choices ahead.
Conclusion
Miles Brundage’s departure from OpenAI marks a significant moment in the ongoing evolution of the company. As he embarks on his journey in the nonprofit sector, the implications of his exit will likely resonate within OpenAI and the broader AI community. With a growing number of high-profile resignations, the future direction of OpenAI remains uncertain, raising questions about its commitment to AI safety and responsible development.
Sources
Longtime policy researcher Miles Brundage leaves OpenAI | TechCrunch, TechCrunch.
Miles Brundage exits OpenAI to focus on independent research | Digital Watch Observatory, Digital Watch Observatory.
OpenAI Exodus Continues: AGI Readiness Advisor Miles Brundage Resigns | Beebom, Beebom.
