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Mira Murati’s startup, Thinking Machines Lab, is losing two of its co-founders to OpenAI

January 15, 2026
Lucas Ropek
TechCrunch
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**Understanding the Shift at Thinking Machines Lab** In an unexpected turn of events, Thinking Machines Lab, led by Mira Murati, is witnessing the departure of two of its co-founders to OpenAI. This news has sparked interest across the tech community, with many eager to understand the implications of such a transition. **What Happened?** According to sources, the decision for the co-founders to leave was not sudden. It had been unfolding over the course of several weeks. This gradual change raises questions about what this means for both Thinking Machines Lab and OpenAI. **Key Insights** The shift in leadership can often create a ripple effect within companies. As two influential figures leave, it can lead to uncertainty among employees and stakeholders. Understanding how these changes impact company culture and future projects is crucial. For Thinking Machines Lab, the loss of founding members could mean a shift in their innovation strategies or project focuses. On the flip side, OpenAI gains experienced talent. Their expertise can help accelerate projects and introduce fresh ideas. This can enhance OpenAI's capabilities in various areas of artificial intelligence

The abrupt change in personnel was in the works for several weeks, according to an OpenAI executive.

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