OpenAI to make London main research hub outside of the US

ChatGPT creator OpenAI is planning to establish London as its central research hub outside of the United States.

OpenAI plans to establish London as its main research hub outside of the United States.

The AI giant – which is behind the ChatGPT chatbot – is set to deepen further its ties with the UK capital having established its first international office in the city in 2023.

OpenAI explained that in establishing London as a major hub, researchers based in the city will “own key components of OpenAI’s frontier model development” to ensure quality, reliability, alignment and safety of its AI systems.

The firm’s chief research officer Mark Chen said: “We are excited to establish London as a major research hub for OpenAI, building on the leading work our London team is already doing to support our latest breakthroughs.

“The UK brings together world-class talent and leading scientific institutions and universities, making it an ideal place to deliver the important research which will ensure our AI is safe, useful and benefits everyone.”

The commitment solidifies London’s reputation as one of the top global cities for AI development – as it is already home to Google’s DeepMind operations and several domestically-owned AI groups.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “London is a global hub for AI innovation and investment, and I am delighted that OpenAI is anchoring its major new research hub here, as we help shape the capital for the next technological wave.

“London is home to world-class talent and renowned institutions and I am committed to ensuring our capital benefits from the huge potential of AI, ensuring that no Londoners are left behind, and building a fairer, more prosperous city for everyone.”

UK Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: “OpenAI naming London as its largest global research hub outside the US, is a huge vote of confidence in the UK’s world-leading position at the cutting edge of AI research. It also reaffirms the UK’s global leadership as the place to pursue AI innovation that is both safe and transformative.

“AI is already offering us better ways to treat disease, tailored support in classrooms, and new ways of harnessing clean affordable energy. We are determined to make sure that the people and places that have previously been left behind benefit first and most as this technology develops, and that the AI revolution helps build a Britain that’s healthier, wealthier and fairer.”