Jason Pruet from OpenAI is a physicist and technology leader with over 20 years of experience across science, national security, and public service. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of California, San Diego, where his academic path was shaped under the guidance of George Fuller, a student of Nobel laureate Willy Fowler. His dissertation explored the physics of gamma-ray bursts, focusing on how weak processes operate in these intense cosmic engines and fireballs. This early research laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to advancing scientific understanding and applying it to practical and national challenges.
Research and Work at Lawrence Livermore
After completing his Ph.D., Jason joined Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a postdoctoral researcher under a SciDAC Supernova grant. His contributions soon led him to become group leader for computational nuclear physics. At LLNL, he focused on missions central to national security, including stockpile stewardship, technologies for detecting clandestine nuclear materials, and methods for forensic attribution. These roles required scientific depth and leadership in applying complex models to real-world security efforts.
Leadership in Public Service
In 2011, Jason transitioned to federal service in Washington, D.C., joining the Department of Energyโs National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). He managed critical programs such as the Primary Assessment Campaign and the Physics and Engineering Models Campaign there. He also helped launch the Capabilities for Nuclear Intelligence program, connecting scientific expertise from national laboratories with vital intelligence missions.
Two years later, he became Chief of an intelligence branch within the DOE Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, where his team assessed foreign nuclear weapons programs. His leadership was recognized through awards from the Secretary of Energy and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Later, as Director of the Office of Engineering for Stockpile Assessments and Responsiveness at NNSA, he oversaw a $500 million science and engineering portfolio supporting the U.S. nuclear deterrent.
Advancing AI and National Security
After nearly a decade in Washington, Jason Pruet joined Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), where he led the Advanced Simulation and Computing (ASC) program. His work supported the maintenance of the nuclear stockpile without underground testing. Collaborating with Brian Spears, Kevin Dixon, and Rick Stevens, he helped establish a national initiative to advance artificial intelligence for Science, Energy, and Security. At LANL, he became the founding director of the National Security AI Office, which focused on preparing for AI's opportunities and risks in national missions.
Current Work at OpenAI
In 2025, he joined the company as a full-time member of the technical staff on the Mission Alignment team. His work supports scientific, philanthropic, and national security initiatives that align with OpenAIโs mission to ensure AI benefits humanity. He collaborates with researchers, policymakers, and nonprofit partners to guide the responsible use of AI across diverse fields.
Contributions and Publications
Jason Pruet has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed papers and technical reports throughout his career. His work includes studies on nucleosynthesis in gamma-ray burst accretion disks, the detection of hidden nuclear materials, and the role of high-performance computing in nuclear security. His professional journey reflects a balanced commitment to advancing science, technology, and service for the greater good.
