06:44 AM EDT, 09/26/2024 (MT Newswires) -- Microsoft ( MSFT )-backed (MSFT) OpenAI's technology chief Mira Murati, VP Research Barret Zoph and research chief Bob McGrew said Wednesday they are leaving the startup.

In a statement on X, Murati said she is leaving "to create the time and space" to do her "own exploration." Murati said her primary focus for now is to do "everything in my power to ensure a smooth transition, maintaining the momentum we've built."

Zoph said he is leaving the OpenAI as it "feels like a natural point for me to explore new opportunities outside of OpenAI."

McGrew, who joined OpenAI in January 2017, said he is stepping down to take a break. McGrew said Mark Chen will lead OpenAI's research team along chief scientist Jakub Pachocki.

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