A new AI startup, Core Automation, has launched by recruiting top researchers from leading labs Anthropic and Google DeepMind. The company, founded by former OpenAI vice president Jerry Tworek, announced its mission to build "the world's most automated AI lab." Its first public statement came via an X post on Tuesday.
This talent raid highlights the intense competition for elite AI researchers among established giants and ambitious newcomers. The move signals a potential shift in where top minds are choosing to pursue cutting-edge work. Startups are increasingly able to attract talent from well-funded incumbents.
The startup's stated objective is to create systems that optimize and automate work, beginning with the research process itself. Former Anthropic researcher Rohan Anil, who also worked at Google DeepMind, publicly confirmed his departure, attributing it to being "nerdsniped" by Tworek. Anil described Anthropic as "one of the best places to work for a researcher."
The recruitment success suggests Core Automation has compelling technology or vision, though its specific research focus remains undisclosed. The company's emergence could accelerate automation in AI development itself, potentially changing how future systems are built. More talent movements from major labs may follow as the startup establishes its team.
Industry observers will watch whether this new lab can translate its ambitious automation thesis into tangible research breakthroughs. The startup's ability to retain and empower its star recruits will be its first major test.