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Semafor2026-06-23

Exclusive / DeepMind Chief Demis Hassabis says Google’s still winning AI talent

LabourIndustry

Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis dismissed concerns about talent loss following recent high-profile departures from the lab. He emphasized that DeepMind's research bench is unmatched in both breadth and depth.

The comments come amid an industry-wide competition for AI talent, with many top researchers moving to rival labs or founding their own startups. Hassabis did not comment on specific departures but reiterated that DeepMind's ability to attract and retain talent remains strong. He described the team as 'the biggest and broadest' in the industry.

The interview is part of a broader discussion about talent retention in leading AI labs. Hassabis's remarks suggest that Google's strategy focuses on overall research capacity rather than individual retention. The company continues to invest heavily in AI research and development, with DeepMind at the center of its efforts.

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● REC · 2026