The Vergecast · Thursday, August 6, 2026
Google DeepMind is undergoing significant leadership changes. Jeff Dean, chief scientist, is leaving to found Discovery Loop, a company focused on building positive AI systems. Demis Hassabis will transition from leader to chair and Alphabet's chief scientist, with DeepMind CTO Kurai Kavachuk Ulu taking over leadership.
“Jeff Dean, Google DeepMind's chief scientist, is leaving to start Discovery Loop, where he'll build deeply positive AI systems.”
“Demis Hassabis is out as leader and will become chair and Alphabet's chief scientist.”
“DeepMind CTO, Kurai Kavachuk Ulu, replaces him.”
“The Verge's Hayden Fields says, this laundry list of executive changes likely signal deeper issues within Google's AI organization, including Dean's opposition to Google's DoD contract and an overall push towards faster, more product-focused leadership.”