If you are interested in Tech and especially in AI Tech, you have definitely came across his name, because only a few names have gained as much attention and respect as Sam Altman. As the co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, Sam Altman has positioned himself at the forefront of AI research and development, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with machine learning and automation. His journey from a passionate entrepreneur to a leading figure in AI is not just a journey of personal success but a reflection of the broader potential and challenges within the tech industry.

Sam Altman's story begins in the heart of Silicon Valley, where his early interest in technology and programming set the stage for a remarkable career. From his days as a student at Stanford University to founding the location-based social networking company, Loopt, Altman's knack for identifying and capitalizing on technological trends has been evident. However, it was his role at Y Combinator, one of the most successful startup accelerators globally, that truly put him on the map, mentoring budding entrepreneurs and steering them towards success.

Yet, it is OpenAI that marks Altman's most ambitious and potentially transformative venture. Founded with the goal of ensuring that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity, OpenAI has made significant steps under Altman's leadership. From groundbreaking research papers to the development of technologies like ChatGPT, OpenAI under Altman's guidance is reshaping our understanding of AI's potential.

This article seeks to explore the multifaceted career of Sam Altman, delving into his early life, educational background, career milestones, personal life, and the philosophical and ethical implications of his work with AI. By examining his achievements and the challenges he's faced, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of a figure who is not only shaping the future of technology, but also influencing the broader societal discourse around the ethical use of AI. We hope that this article will answer all your questions :)

Early Life and Education

Sam Altman's journey into the tech world started long before he became a household name in Silicon Valley. Born on April 22, 1985, in Chicago, Illinois, Sam was the kind of kid who was always curious about how things worked. This curiosity wasn't just limited to gadgets and computers; he had a wide array of interests that hinted at his future as a polymath. However, it was the family move to St. Louis, Missouri, that really set the stage for his tech career. Growing up in a place that wasn't exactly known as a tech hub, Sam turned to the internet and books to fuel his passion for technology.

High school for Sam wasn't just about getting through his classes. He was already diving deep into programming and starting to think about the impact technology could have on the world. His passion for entrepreneurship began to show when he started his first tech ventures before even finishing high school. It was clear from the start that Sam was not going to follow a conventional path.

After high school, Sam headed to Stanford University, a place that's pretty much a factory for tech geniuses. At Stanford, he studied computer science, which is no surprise, but what's interesting is how he approached his education. Sam wasn't just there to pass exams and get a degree; he was there to soak up everything he could about technology and entrepreneurship. Stanford is where the seeds for his future ventures were planted, thanks to the exposure to like-minded students and professors, as well as the proximity to Silicon Valley's startup culture.

But Sam's time at Stanford was cut short. He left before completing his degree to throw himself into the world of startups. This decision wasn't taken lightly but reflected his belief that real-world experience and the right network could offer more than the classroom at that point in his life. This bold move was the first step on a path that would lead him to become one of the most influential figures in AI and technology. It's a reminder that for some, the traditional route isn't always the way to achieve big dreams.

Q&A

What is Sam Altman's IQ?

According to an estimation by DgFresh, Sam Altman's IQ is around 170. This places his intelligence in the upper extreme, suggesting that he scores higher than approximately 99% of the population. Such a high IQ indicates a remarkable level of cognitive ability, which has likely played a role in his successes as an entrepreneur and investor, most notably as the CEO of OpenAI. Please keep in mind that this is only an estimation.

What did Sam Altman study?

Sam Altman studied computer science during his time in university at Stanford University. His academic focus on computer science provided a foundation for his future endeavors in the tech industry, including his role in developing OpenAI.

Where did Sam Altman study?

Sam Altman attended Stanford University, a prestigious institution known for its strong engineering and computer science programs. Stanford's environment, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and entrepreneurial spirit.

Did Sam Altman finish University?

No, Sam Altman did not finish his university studies at Stanford. He decided to leave Stanford to pursue entrepreneurial projects, including co-founding Loopt, which would be his first step into the world of technology startups and venture capital.

Career

Early Career

Leaving Stanford early, he didn't waste any time getting his hands dirty in the world of startups. His first big move was co-founding Loopt, a social networking mobile app that let friends share their locations with each other. Think of it as the early days of "Find My Friends," but with a social twist. In 2005, this idea was pretty groundbreaking, and it showed that Sam was on to something big.

Running Loopt wasn't just a job for Sam; it was his crash course in entrepreneurship. He learned how to pitch to investors, navigate the ups and downs of startup life, and what it means to lead a team. These lessons were priceless. In 2012, after Loopt was acquired by Green Dot Corporation for $43.4 million, it was clear Sam wasn't just a one-hit-wonder.

But as mentioned earlier, what really put Sam on the map in the tech world was his role at Y Combinator, the startup accelerator known for backing some of the biggest names in tech today. After becoming a partner at YC he took over as president from Y Combinator's co-founder Paul Graham in 2014. This was a big deal because Y Combinator wasn't just any incubator; it was the launchpad for companies like Airbnb, Dropbox, Stripe and Reddit. Under Sam's leadership, Y Combinator not only grew in size but also in the scope of its ambition. He introduced the YC Fellowship and YC Continuity Fund, making it clear that Y Combinator was there to support startups from their earliest days through to their growth stages.

At Y Combinator, Sam was more than just an administrator; he was a mentor and a visionary. He had this ability to spot potential in people and ideas that others might overlook. His tenure at Y Combinator was marked by a push towards more socially beneficial businesses, including those in the AI and clean energy spaces. This period was crucial not just for the growth of Y Combinator but also for Sam's evolving vision of how technology could and should shape our future.

Sam's early career laid the foundation for his later ventures. His experiences taught him the importance of bold ideas, the courage to pursue them, and the impact of nurturing a community of innovators. These lessons would prove invaluable as he stepped into his next big role: leading OpenAI into uncharted territories of artificial intelligence.

Q&A

What was the first startup Sam Altman founded?

Sam Altman co-founded Loopt, his first startup, which was a pioneering location-based social networking mobile app. Loopt allowed users to share their locations with friends, tapping into the early trends of social media and mobile technology integration. The company was eventually acquired by Green Dot Corporation in 2012 for $43.4 million, marking a significant success for Altman as a young entrepreneur.

How did Sam Altman become so famous?

Sam Altman gained significant prominence through his role as President of Y Combinator, one of the most influential startup accelerators globally, where he advised and funded many successful startups. His leadership in co-founding OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence research lab, further solidified his reputation as a visionary in the tech industry, especially with the development of technologies like ChatGPT.

How did Sam Altman become president of Y Combinator?

Sam Altman became the president of Y Combinator in 2014, succeeding its co-founder Paul Graham. Altman was a natural choice for the position due to his success as an entrepreneur with Loopt, his involvement as a part-time partner at Y Combinator since 2011, and his well-established reputation in the tech community for his insight and expertise in startup growth and development.

How old was Sam Altman when he founded OpenAI?

Sam Altman co-founded OpenAI in December 2015, when he was about 30 years old. OpenAI was established with the mission to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI) technology would benefit all of humanity, and it has since become a leading organization in AI research and development.

OpenAI

Sam Altman's leap into the world of artificial intelligence with OpenAI wasn't just a career move; it was more like a mission statement. When he co-founded OpenAI in December 2015, along with Elon Musk and a group of other tech luminaries, it was clear this wasn't going to be your average tech venture. Their goal? To ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI)—AI that surpasses human intelligence in all aspects—benefits all of humanity, not just a select few. This was a lofty goal, but if anyone had the track record to make people believe it was possible, it was Sam.

At OpenAI, Sam's vision was to create an AI that could learn and understand anything that humans can, but faster and better. This wasn't about building a better chatbot or a smarter assistant. This was about shaping the future of humanity. Imagine an AI that could solve problems we've been stuck on for centuries, from curing diseases to reversing climate change. That's the dream Sam was chasing and still is.

Under Sam's leadership, OpenAI made headlines around the world with groundbreaking developments. Perhaps the most famous of these is ChatGPT, the conversational AI that can write essays, code, and even poetry that's indistinguishable from human work. It wasn't just impressive; it was a glimpse into the future of AI that Sam had been talking about.

But leading OpenAI wasn't just about making scientific breakthroughs. It was also about navigating the ethical minefield that comes with powerful AI. Sam was deeply aware of the potential risks of AI, from job displacement to the existential threats it could pose. He didn't shy away from these discussions. Instead, he made them a central part of OpenAI's mission. The organization's commitment to sharing its research and technology was a testament to its belief in the democratization of AI.

Under Sam's guidance, OpenAI transitioned from a nonprofit to a "capped-profit" model. This move, while controversial to some, was a strategic way to attract the investment needed to compete in the high-stakes world of AI research while still keeping the company's altruistic goals front and center. It was a classic Sam Altman play: innovative, bold, and a bit unexpected.

Q&A

How much does Microsoft own in OpenAI?

Microsoft owns a 49 % stake in OpenAI. This substantial financial commitment began with a $1 billion investment in 2019, which was significantly increased by an additional $10 billion in January 2024. The investment terms between Microsoft and OpenAI are known to be unconventional and not widely disclosed.

What type of nonprofit is OpenAI?

OpenAI started as a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and developing artificial intelligence in a way that benefits humanity as a whole. It later evolved into a hybrid organization with the establishment of OpenAI LP, a capped-profit entity, allowing it to attract significant investments, such as those from Microsoft, while still being governed by the overarching mission of the original nonprofit, OpenAI Inc. This structure is designed to ensure that OpenAI's advancements in AI continue to be aligned with ethical guidelines and the public good, despite the infusion of substantial corporate investment.

Controversies and Challenges

Sam Altman's journey with OpenAI has been a thrilling ride, marked not just by breakthroughs and milestones but also by its fair share of bumps and unexpected turns. Leading an organization at the forefront of AI research means facing high expectations, and complex ethical dilemmas. It's a role that's both exhilarating and daunting, and Sam's experience has been no exception.

Perhaps one of the most talked-about moments in this journey was Sam's brief departure from OpenAI. It's the kind of story that captures the imagination, hinting at the high-drama, high-stakes world of leading a cutting-edge tech organization. While details around this episode are somewhat hazy, it served as a stark reminder of the pressures and internal dynamics at play within such a pioneering company. This incident, swiftly resolved, not only highlighted the passionate commitment of those at OpenAI but also showcased Sam's resilience and his unwavering dedication to the organization's mission. It was a moment that could have spelled the end but instead reaffirmed the strong foundation and mutual trust upon which OpenAI is built.

Sam's path has also been shaped by the external challenges that come with navigating the uncharted territories of AI. From ethical dilemmas about the future impact of AI to the technical hurdles of advancing the field, the road has been anything but straightforward. Under Sam's guidance, OpenAI has consistently pushed for responsible AI development, sparking necessary debates and occasionally drawing criticism for its approaches and decisions.

Beyond internal dramas, Sam and OpenAI face a barrage of external challenges, too. There's the ethical minefield of AI development, for starters. How do you ensure that AI benefits humanity and doesn't run amok? Under Sam's leadership, OpenAI has been vocal about the risks associated with AI, advocating for responsible development and use. This stance hasn't been free from criticism, with some accusing the organization of being overly secretive or monopolistic in its approach.

Then there's the technical side of things. Achieving OpenAI's ambitious goals requires solving some of the most complex problems in computer science. And as AI technology advances, so do the challenges: ensuring AI systems can't be used for harm, making sure they reflect ethical values, and preventing them from exacerbating social inequalities.

Competition and collaboration with big tech companies add another layer of complexity. Sam has had to navigate partnerships, like the one with Microsoft, ensuring they align with OpenAI's mission to ensure general benefits from AI. Balancing commercial interests with OpenAI's founding vision of open and beneficial AI is a delicate dance.

Throughout all this, Sam Altman has shown that he's not one to shy away from tough conversations or decisions. His approach—mixing open dialogue, a commitment to OpenAI's foundational ethics, and a clear vision for the future of AI—has helped the organization maintain its course through turbulent times. These controversies and challenges aren't just obstacles but opportunities for reflection, learning, and growth, both for Sam and for the broader AI community. They're part of what makes working at the frontier of AI so exciting and daunting in equal measure.

Q&A

Is OpenAI and ChatGPT safe?

According to the companies statements, OpenAI prioritizes the safety and ethical use of its AI technologies, including ChatGPT. The organization implements rigorous testing and research to address potential risks, focusing on secure and responsible AI deployment. User privacy and data protection are central to their approach, though as with any AI technology, ongoing vigilance and adaptation to emerging challenges are key to maintaining safety.

Why was Sam Altman briefly fired from OpenAI?

There are many rumours about why Sam Altman was brief fired from OpenAI. Some were centered around concerns over AI safety and the organization's role in safeguarding it. However, those are just rumours and there is no publicly confirmed reason for the firing. He returned shortly after.

What role does Altman believe governments should play in regulating AI?

Sam Altman advocates for thoughtful government regulation of AI to ensure its safe and beneficial development. He believes that governments should work collaboratively with the AI research community to set standards and guidelines that promote innovation while protecting society from potential risks. Altman supports proactive measures to address ethical concerns and ensure that AI advancements contribute positively to society.

How does OpenAI ensure its AI is ethical?

OpenAI is committed to developing AI in an ethical and safe manner, guided by principles that prioritize the welfare of humanity. The organization engages in extensive research on AI safety and ethics, collaborates with external experts, and actively seeks feedback from the broader community. OpenAI has established governance and oversight mechanisms to review its projects and initiatives, ensuring they align with ethical standards and contribute to the organization's mission of benefiting all of humanity.

Personal Life

When it comes to Sam Altman's personal life, he tends to keep things pretty private, a choice many can respect given his high-profile position in the tech world. While there's always a buzz of curiosity about the personal lives of public figures, Sam has managed to keep his away from the spotlight. As for the question on many people's minds—Is Sam Altman married?—the answer isn't one that's widely known or discussed publicly (but we will answer it later in our Q&A9. Sam prefers to keep details about his relationships and family life under wraps, focusing the public's attention on his work and visions for the future of AI and technology.

Outside the whirlwind of running OpenAI and shaping the future of tech, Sam has a range of interests that paint a picture of a well-rounded individual with a curious mind. He's known for his love of flying and holds a pilot's license, which is quite fitting for someone who's all about exploring new horizons, whether in the sky or in technology. This passion for flying speaks to a broader sense of adventure and exploration that characterizes much of his work and personal philosophy.

Sam's also a voracious reader and thinker, often delving into topics beyond technology. His interests in economics, political theory, and science fiction offer glimpses into the wide array of influences that shape his approach to AI and its potential impact on society. These readings not only inform his work but also fuel his contributions to discussions on public policy and the ethical dimensions of technology.

Moreover, Sam is an advocate for effective altruism, a philosophy and social movement that aims to use evidence and reasoning to determine the most effective ways to benefit others. This commitment to making a positive impact is reflected in his work with OpenAI, aiming to ensure AI technology benefits all of humanity. It's a reminder that behind the tech genius is a person driven by a desire to contribute to the greater good, using his talents and resources to address some of the world's most pressing challenges.

In essence, Sam Altman's personal life, though kept private, reveals a man deeply engaged with the world, constantly seeking to learn, explore, and make a meaningful difference. Whether he's piloting an aircraft, immersed in a book, or pondering the future of AI, Sam embodies a blend of intellectual curiosity and a commitment to positive impact that defines much of his public persona.

Q&A

Is Sam Altman married?

Sam Altman is married to Oliver Mulherin who is a Software Engineer at Meta. The couple celebrated their union in a private ceremony in Hawaii, surrounded by close family and friends.

What hobbies does Sam Altman have?

Sam Altman has a known passion for flying. Furthermore, he often mentioned that he is also very intersted in reading, particularly in areas like economics, political theory, and science fiction.

Does Sam Altman have any kids?

Like his marital status, any information about Sam Altman having children is not really publicly known.

Where does Sam Altman live?

Sam Altman is primarily based in San Francisco, California—a hub for tech innovation and the heart of Silicon Valley. This location makes sense given his deep involvement in the tech industry and his role at OpenAI.

What charities does Sam Altman support?

Sam Altman is an advocate for effective altruism, a movement that uses evidence and reasoning to determine the most effective ways to benefit others. While specific charities he supports aren't publicly listed, his interest in effective altruism suggests he likely backs organizations and causes that align with maximizing positive impact, which could include areas related to technology access, AI ethics, and global health.

Net Worth and Investments

Diving into Sam Altman's world, you can't help but be curious about the man behind the AI revolution. How much has he earned from turning his tech dreams into reality? And what's he investing in beyond the AI breakthroughs we hear so much about? Sam's financial journey is as fascinating as his career—shrouded in a bit of mystery, sparking conversations and curiosity alike. From his early success with Loopt to leading the charge at OpenAI, it's clear he's not just another tech entrepreneur. While we might not have a billboard flashing his net worth, the steps he's taken, the risks, and the breakthroughs point to a fortune that's as impressive as his vision for the future.

The mystery of whether Sam Altman has reached billionaire status is a tantalizing one. Though the exact figures of his net worth are kept under wraps, the impact of his ventures—both socially and economically—hints at considerable financial success. Today we are going to try to get a sneak peak behind the investments that Sam Altman did.

Most significant investments

Since Sam Altman joined the start up world he has been an active participant in the startup ecosystem, contributing as both an angel investor and a venture capitalist. His investment portfolio probably holds over 100 companies, highlighting prominent names like Stripe, Reddit, Asana and Neuralink. This track record underscores Altman's significant influence and commitment to fostering innovation and growth within various sectors. Let's have a look at some of his most significant investments.

Reddit

The latest IPO filling of Reddit reveals that Sam Altman owns a significant larger share in Reddit than initially thought. His share of 8.7% is even higher then Reddits CEO Steve Huffman (3.3%). This positions Altman with significant influence, owning more than double Huffman's voting power.

Neuralink

In July 2021, Sam Altman joined the investment round for Elon Musk's Neuralink, contributing to a $205 million Series C funding. Neuralink is working on a groundbreaking project to create a device that wirelessly links the human brain with computers, aiming to facilitate direct communication between the two.

Asana

Sam Altman also played a pivotal role in Asana's growth by leading its $50 million Series C funding in March 2016, and later contributing to the $75 million Series D funding in January 2018, showcasing his continued support and investment in the company's development.

Helion Energy

Helion Energy is a quite important position in Sam Altman's portfolio. Altman's commitment was highlighted by a substantial $375 million investment in Helion's Series E funding in November 2021, valuing the company at $2.5 billion. His engagement goes beyond mere investment; Altman actively participates in the company's operations, including monthly visits, underlining his deep involvement and interest in Helion's progress and success in the energy sector.

Worldcoin

The company under the umbrella of Tools for Humanity, was co-founded by Sam Altman in 2019 and has successfully secured over $200 million in financing, with significant support from Sam Altman's Hyrdrazine Capital, alongside notable firms like Andreessen Horowitz and Blockchain Capital.

Slope

In September of 2023 Slope raised a total of $187 million from investors with a venture funding of $30 million from Sam Altman. Slope is a B2B payment platform that integrates generative AI for enhanced transaction efficiency.

Map of Sam Altmans Investments

Q&A

How much is OpenAI worth?

Pinning down OpenAI's exact worth is a bit like trying to grab a cloud—tricky, because it's privately held and its financials aren't public. But with Microsoft pouring in a cool billion (and possibly more since then), it's safe to say OpenAI's value is up there in the stratosphere. The big bucks back its ambitious AI research, hinting at a pretty impressive valuation.

What has Sam Altman invested in?

Sam Altman's not just sitting on his hands; he's got his fingers in a lot of pies. Beyond leading OpenAI, he's thrown his support behind a mix of startups that are as diverse as they are innovative—from renewable energy tohealthcare, and yes, even space exploration. His investment choices reflect his belief in tech's power to solve big problems and make the world a better place.

OpenAI and Ownership

Let's take a closer look at OpenAI, the powerhouse behind some of the most advanced AI technologies today, often leads to questions about its ownership and structure, especially in relation to Sam Altman. Let's take a closer look at web of ownership and understand the transformation of OpenAI from its inception to its current form.

First off, does Sam Altman own OpenAI? It's a straightforward question with a nuanced answer. Sam Altman is the CEO and a co-founder of OpenAI, but the term "ownership" in the context of OpenAI is a bit complex due to its unique structure. Initially founded as a nonprofit, OpenAI's mission was to ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity. The idea was to focus on the broader impact rather than personal gain. So, while Sam plays a pivotal role in guiding OpenAI's direction, owning it in the traditional business sense doesn't quite apply.

Diving deeper into who actually "owns" OpenAI, we encounter a structure that is not commonly found in the corporate world. The original nonprofit organization, OpenAI Inc., oversees a for-profit entity, OpenAI LP. This setup ensures that while OpenAI pursues ambitious and capital-intensive research, it remains aligned with its overarching mission. The governance structure includes a board of directors and various stakeholders, including notable tech figures and investors who share the vision of responsible AI development.

The transition from a purely nonprofit organization to this hybrid model was driven by the need for more flexibility and funding to achieve OpenAI's ambitious goals. Competing in the high-stakes world of AI research and development requires significant resources, leading to the creation of OpenAI LP. This transition allowed OpenAI to attract investment and talent while maintaining a commitment to its founding principles.

Understanding what type of nonprofit OpenAI was originally helps clarify why the change occurred. As a nonprofit, OpenAI's primary goal was to focus on the public good rather than private benefit. However, the evolving landscape of AI research, the capital required for advancements, and the competitive environment necessitated a shift. The creation of the for-profit arm allowed OpenAI to scale its efforts, secure funding from significant tech players like Microsoft, and still prioritize ethical and safe development of AI.

In essence, while Sam Altman doesn't "own" OpenAI in the traditional sense, his leadership and vision have been instrumental in its growth and impact. The unique structure of OpenAI reflects a thoughtful approach to navigating the challenges of developing transformative AI technologies while adhering to a mission that prioritizes the greater good over individual gain.

Q&A

Does Sam Altman own OpenAI?

No, Sam Altman doesn't own OpenAI in the traditional sense. As CEO and co-founder, he leads the organization but due to its unique nonprofit and capped-profit structure, it doesn't have ownership shares like a typical company.

Why did OpenAI partner with Microsoft?

OpenAI partnered with Microsoft for access to extensive cloud computing resources and financial support, crucial for powering its ambitious AI research and development. This partnership helps OpenAI scale its projects while adhering to its ethical AI development mission.

What is OpenAI?

OpenAI is an AI research lab founded with the mission to ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity. It focuses on advancing digital intelligence in ways that can positively impact society, and it's behind innovations like ChatGPT.

Does Sam Altman own OpenAI?

Sam Altman is the CEO and one of the co-founders of OpenAI, but he doesn't "own" it in the traditional sense. OpenAI's structure, comprising both nonprofit and for-profit entities, means that it operates differently from conventional companies where ownership equates to shares.

Is OpenAI a nonprofit?

OpenAI began as a nonprofit organization but has since evolved into a hybrid model. This model includes OpenAI Inc. (the nonprofit parent entity) and OpenAI LP (the capped-profit entity under it), allowing it to pursue funding and research aggressively while adhering to its foundational mission.

What is the capped-profit model in OpenAI?

The capped-profit model allows OpenAI to accept external investments and generate revenue through its for-profit arm, OpenAI LP, but limits the amount of profit investors can earn. This ensures that the pursuit of profit doesn't overshadow the organization's mission to benefit humanity.

Who are the investors in OpenAI?

Key investors in OpenAI include Microsoft, which has entered into a multi-billion dollar partnership to support OpenAI's research and development efforts. Other private investors include Reid Hoffman, Peter Thiel, Jessica Livingston, Elon Musk.

Can you buy stock in OpenAI?

Since OpenAI is not a public company and operates under a hybrid nonprofit/for-profit model, the public cannot buy stock in OpenAI in the way they can with publicly traded companies.

How does OpenAI fund its research?

OpenAI funds its research through partnerships, investments, and the revenue generated by its for-profit subsidiary, OpenAI LP. This includes major agreements with companies like Microsoft and revenue from products and services developed by OpenAI.

What was the reason for OpenAI's transition to a hybrid model?

The transition to a hybrid model was driven by the need for more significant funding to pursue ambitious AI research and development that could compete on a global scale. This model allows OpenAI to attract investments and generate revenue while keeping its altruistic mission at the forefront.

How does OpenAI ensure its mission is prioritized over profit?

OpenAI ensures its mission is prioritized over profit through its governance structure, which includes the capped-profit model for its for-profit arm. This structure is designed to attract the necessary capital for research and development while ensuring that the mission to benefit humanity guides the organization's decisions and innovations.

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