Microsoft Poaches Top AI Talent from Allen Institute for AI
Microsoft scoops up a squad of elite AI researchers from Ai2, including the institute's recently departed CEO.
Microsoft just raided the Allen Institute for AI. The tech giant is bringing on a group of top AI researchers from the Seattle-based nonprofit, along with talent from the University of Washington.
The biggest name in the haul: Ali Farhadi, who served as CEO of Ai2 before stepping down on March 12. He's now headed to Redmond's sprawling AI operation.
The move signals Microsoft's relentless appetite for AI expertise as the race to dominate the space intensifies. Ai2, founded by the late Paul Allen, has long been a respected hub for foundational AI research. Losing a chunk of its brain trust — including its former chief — to Microsoft is a significant talent shift in Seattle's tight-knit AI community.
Details on team size and specific roles remain sparse. GeekWire first reported the hiring spree.