Thursday, February 26, 2026

Ex-OpenAI and XAI Employee Resigns Due to Burnout, Returns to Vietnam

Hieu Pham, a former staffer at OpenAI and xAI, is stepping back from the intense pace of frontier AI labs due to burnout. He announced his departure on X, reflecting on his experience as a privilege but acknowledging the personal toll it took on his mental health. Pham described the reality of burnout as “miserable, scary, and dangerous” and revealed plans to return to Vietnam to recuperate with his family and explore new opportunities. His exit highlights a concerning trend among AI researchers, with others like Mrinank Sharma and Dylan Scandinaro expressing unease about the industry’s demanding culture, akin to the controversial “996” work schedule in China. The rapid advancement of AI technology raises ethical concerns, prompting professionals to question the balance between innovation and its potential consequences. As the industry evolves, the need for sustainable practices and mental health awareness becomes increasingly crucial.

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