According to these sources, this new startup that is still in stealth mode aims to build AI products based on proprietary models. Whether Murati will assume the position of CEO in the company is not yet clear.

Although discussions remain in their initial phase, Murati’s latest endeavour may potentially secure over $100 million, owing to her reputation and the substantial funding required for developing proprietary models, according to one insider. However, they emphasised that the figures are not yet finalised.

Additionally, Barret Zoph, a well-known researcher who left his position at OpenAI on the same day as Murati in late September, may also play a role in this new venture, sources indicated.

According to earlier reports by The Information, Zoph has been preparing to launch a new startup, while Murati has been actively recruiting OpenAI employees to become part of her own new venture.

Who is Mira Murati?

Mira Murati is an engineer and technology executive, best known for her role as the Chief Technology Officer at OpenAI. She played a key part in the development of OpenAI's flagship AI models, including GPT-3 and GPT-4, which have been widely recognised for their advancements in natural language processing and machine learning. She was also a key figure in OpenAI’s multibillion-dollar partnership with its largest financial backer, Microsoft.

Murati joined OpenAI in June 2018, and was then promoted to CTO in May 2022.

Murati’s background includes expertise in AI, ML, and product development. Before joining OpenAI, she worked at augmented reality startup Leap Motion and Tesla. At Tesla she contributed to projects like the Model X vehicle and the development of autopilot systems. Her work at OpenAI has placed her at the forefront of discussions around the ethical use of AI and its societal impact, with her often advocating for responsible AI deployment.

Murati's reputation in the AI industry has grown due to her technical contributions and leadership in shaping how AI technologies are developed and applied in real-world scenarios. She is seen as a thought leader in the AI space, with a focus on balancing innovation with ethical considerations.

OpenAI resignations

Murati’s sudden resignation in late September became the latest in a series of high-profile departures from the company behind ChatGPT, as OpenAI navigates significant shifts in its governance structure, including the removal of control from its non-profit board. Having briefly stepped in as interim CEO when Altman was ousted by the board last year, Murati cited personal exploration as the reason for her decision to leave.

With her exit, Murati joins a number of former OpenAI executives who have gone on to establish their own startups, following in the footsteps of competitors like Anthropic and Safe Superintelligence.

Earlier this year, John Schulman, Co-Founder of OpenAI, left to join competitor Anthropic. Around the same time as Murati, Chief Research Officer Bob McGrew, and Vice President of Research, Barret Zoph, left the company.

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