David Ha is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sakana AI, a Tokyo-based startup focused on advancing foundational AI models through concepts inspired by computational evolution. His career trajectory showcases a unique blend of finance, research, and innovation in artificial intelligence.

Professional Background

Current Position:

• Co-Founder & CEO at Sakana AI (2023 - Present)

• Location: Tokyo, Japan

Previous Experience:

• Research Scientist at Google Brain (2016 - 2022): Led the Google Brain Research team in Japan, focusing on complex systems, self-organization, and machine learning applications.

• Managing Director at Goldman Sachs (2007 - 2016): Served as co-head of fixed-income trading in Japan, where he honed his quantitative analysis skills and systems thinking.

Education

• PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Tokyo.

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Science from the University of Toronto.

Sakana AI Company Overview

Founded in 2023, Sakana AI aims to create innovative AI solutions that mimic natural intelligence through decentralized and self-organized systems. The company emphasizes evolutionary computing and collective intelligence.

Core Premises:

• The belief that future AI will resemble the diversity of specialized beings found in nature.

• A commitment to establishing a credible sovereign AI ecosystem in Japan, supported by major corporations and government initiatives.

Research Interests and Contributions

David Ha's research spans several key areas:

Evolutionary Strategies: His work investigates how evolutionary algorithms can enhance machine learning models, contributing to the development of domain-specific models that are effective and intuitive.

Interactive Web Visualizations: He has created numerous projects that demonstrate neural network agents in engaging formats, such as games and simulations.

Publications: David has authored influential papers presented at major conferences like NeurIPS, ICLR, and ICML. Notable works include:

• "World Models" (NeurIPS 2018)

• "Hypernetworks" (ICLR 2017)

• "Learning Latent Dynamics for Planning from Pixels" (ICML 2019)

Achievements

• Innovative Projects: Developed interactive experiments that visualize neural networks' capabilities, enhancing understanding of machine learning results.

• Recognition: His transition from finance to AI research reflects a broader trend of professionals seeking more creative outlets within technology.

Personal Insights

David Ha's journey from a high-pressure finance career to leading an innovative AI startup demonstrates his passion for creativity and exploration within technology. He advocates for using visual tools to communicate research findings effectively, emphasizing the importance of engaging with complex systems through interactive elements.

In summary, David Ha is a distinguished leader in the AI field whose work at Sakana AI aims to redefine how artificial intelligence can be developed and understood. His unique background combines rigorous academic training with practical experience in both finance and technology, positioning him as a key figure in Japan's evolving AI landscape.