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Thinking Machines Lab cofounder Lilian Weng steps down, citing startup-related stress and illness

Lilian Weng said repeated illness and the pressure of building an AI startup had become physically unsustainable.

Thinking Machines Lab cofounder Lilian Weng steps down, citing startup-related stress and illness

TL;DR

  • Lilian Weng, cofounder of Thinking Machines Lab, is leaving the company due to stress and illness.
  • She cited the physical demands of a startup pace as unsustainable for her health.
  • Weng previously held roles at OpenAI as VP of research and safety.
  • She will seek a more predictable role in AI that allows her to prioritize her health.
  • Weng's departure follows similar health-related step-backs by other AI industry leaders.
  • Thinking Machines Lab has also experienced significant turnover in its founding team due to talent competition.