Thinking Machines parts ways with CTO Barret Zoph, with Soumith Chintala taking over the role; sources say the termination is due to "unethical conduct" (Kylie Robison/@kyliebytes)

TechmemeThursday, January 15, 2026 at 12:50:04 AM
Thinking Machines parts ways with CTO Barret Zoph, with Soumith Chintala taking over the role; sources say the termination is due to "unethical conduct" (Kylie Robison/@kyliebytes)
  • Thinking Machines has terminated its Chief Technology Officer, Barret Zoph, due to allegations of unethical conduct, as confirmed by sources familiar with the situation. Soumith Chintala has been appointed as the new CTO, a decision announced by CEO Mira Murati during an all-hands meeting with employees.
  • This leadership change is significant for Thinking Machines, as it reflects the company's commitment to ethical standards and governance, which are crucial for maintaining trust among stakeholders and ensuring the integrity of its operations in the competitive AI landscape.
  • The incident highlights ongoing challenges within the tech industry regarding ethical conduct and accountability, particularly as companies like Thinking Machines strive to innovate responsibly while navigating complex moral and operational dilemmas in artificial intelligence development.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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Fidji Simo says Barret Zoph, Luke Metz, and Sam Schoenholz are returning to OpenAI from Thinking Machines and the move "has been in the works for several weeks" (Fidji Simo/@fidjissimo)
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Fidji Simo announced the return of Barret Zoph, Luke Metz, and Sam Schoenholz to OpenAI from Thinking Machines, stating that the transition has been in preparation for several weeks. This move is seen as a strategic reinforcement of OpenAI's team as it continues to innovate in the AI sector.
BREAKING: Thinking Machines has terminated its CTO, Barrett Zoph, due to unethical conduct according to two sources familiar with the matter. CEO Mira Murati announced the news at an all-hands with employees today. Soumith Chintala will be taking over as CTO. (Kylie Robison/@kyliebytes)
NegativeArtificial Intelligence
Thinking Machines has terminated its Chief Technology Officer, Barrett Zoph, due to allegations of unethical conduct, as confirmed by two sources. The announcement was made by CEO Mira Murati during an all-hands meeting with employees, and Soumith Chintala has been appointed as the new CTO.

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