Fired OpenAI Safety Researchers Deny Misconduct Claims
OpenAI safety researchers dismissed after being accused of leaking confidential information have denied the allegations, warning that the move creates a chilling effect on safety research within the organization.
Safety researchers Jasmine Wang, Tomek Korbak, and Mikita Balesni, who were fired by OpenAI, have published a joint open letter refuting allegations that they mishandled sensitive information. The researchers stated that this decision has created a climate of fear regarding safety-focused work within the company culture.
Details of the Open Letter
Jasmine Wang, Tomek Korbak, and Mikita Balesni penned an open letter addressed to OpenAI's Safety and Security Committee, Safety Advisory Group, and Mission Advisory Council. In the letter, the researchers argued that accusations of mishandling sensitive information do not reflect reality.
Emphasis on Collaboration with External Stakeholders
The three dismissed individuals stated that collaborating with external experts is vital in the process of identifying and addressing artificial intelligence risks. The researchers had been dismissed on the grounds that they shared information with a third-party AI safety organization.
Denial of Leak Allegations
The researchers stated that they had no involvement in a leak to The Information newspaper regarding auditable architectures in OpenAI's newest models. They also emphasized that they did not engage in unauthorized interactions with parties outside their job descriptions.
Explanation of Technical Error
Jasmine Wang stated via the X platform that she accidentally opened a manager's email due to an unresolved IT request and promptly reported the error. It was stated that this situation may have led to misunderstandings.
OpenAI's Internal Note and Response to Allegations
While OpenAI management did not provide an official response to the open letter, in an internal note shared with employees, they argued that the researchers were not fired for raising safety concerns. The company claimed that a series of misconduct and policy violations lay behind the departures.