David Robinson

David Robinson serves as the Head of Policy Planning at OpenAI, a position he has held since May 2023. Based in San Francisco, California, Robinson plays a crucial role in shaping OpenAI's engagement in AI policy discussions, especially as regulatory frameworks for artificial intelligence evolve in both the U.S. and the E.U..136

Educational Background and Early Career

Robinson holds a Juris Doctor (JD) from Yale Law School and has an academic background that includes a major in philosophy from Princeton University and a master's degree from Oxford University, where he was a Rhodes Scholar. His early career involved significant contributions to the intersection of law and technology, including co-founding Upturn, a nonprofit organization focused on equity and justice in digital technology governance.235

Professional Experience

Before joining OpenAI, Robinson was the Faculty Director at Apple University and served as a Visiting Scientist at Cornell University. He also worked with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, where he contributed to discussions on science and society.57 His work has often centered around algorithmic governance and the implications of automated decision-making systems.4

Publications and Contributions

Robinson is also an author, having written "Voices in the Code," which discusses democratizing AI and the importance of inclusive governance in technology.27 His expertise is recognized in various forums where he advocates for responsible AI development that benefits all of humanity.

In his current role at OpenAI, Robinson emphasizes the importance of creating policies that ensure safe and beneficial artificial general intelligence (AGI), reflecting his commitment to ethical considerations in technology.6