Brian Tomasik

Brian Tomasik, born on March 15, 1987, is an American researcher and co-founder of the Foundational Research Institute (FRI), which was later renamed to the Center on Long-Term Risk (CLR) in 2020.14 He is known for his work on reducing suffering, particularly in the areas of animal welfare, wild animal suffering, and long-term risks of astronomical suffering (s-risks).12

Tomasik studied computer science, mathematics, and statistics at Swarthmore College.15 He worked at Microsoft as a software development engineer from 2009 to 2013.1 In 2013, he co-founded the Foundational Research Institute and continues to serve as an advisor to the organization.15

His website, "Essays on Reducing Suffering" (originally called "Utilitarian Essays"), features over 130 articles on topics including animal suffering, future suffering, consciousness, and ethics.1 Tomasik is credited with establishing the field of wild animal welfare and was one of the first in the effective altruism movement to articulate the argument for "earning to give".15

Tomasik has made significant contributions to various areas:

1. Research: He has published articles on artificial intelligence, wild animal suffering, and insect sentience.3
2. Advocacy: His writings have influenced the effective altruism movement and sparked academic interest in wild animal suffering.15
3. Philanthropy: He has donated approximately $200,000 to charities he supports.5
4. Volunteering: Tomasik served on the board of Animal Charity Evaluators from 2012 to 2015 and has contributed to various nonprofit organizations.5

Currently, Tomasik continues his work as a researcher and advisor, focusing on reducing suffering from a long-term perspective.15