Three former OpenAI researchers claim they were let go for prioritising safety over the company’s interests, a claim the firm disputes, citing mishandling of sensitive information.

The researchers, Mikita Balesni, Tomek Korbak and Jasmine Wang, are safety or alignment employees who raised concerns that their dismissal could make other employees afraid to speak up.

OpenAI's statement claims the firing was due to a breach of trust beyond the safety concerns, with the firm emphasising its commitment to safety as it finalises contracts with third-party assessors.

The incident comes amidst growing discussions on AI safety and the potential risks advanced AI systems could pose to society. Balesni, Korbak and Wang argue that their dismissal signals a chilling effect on ethical discussions within the company.

Wang warned, ‘Unless employees take a stand now against this kind of manoeuvre, I am concerned we will not be the last.’