OpenAI researcher Miles Wang is in talks to launch an AI drug discovery startup, with several other OpenAI researchers expected to join. He is reportedly seeking to raise approximately $200 million at a $2 billion valuation, with Lightspeed in discussions to lead the round. Wang disputed the story's funding figures and company description but did not provide specific corrections.
Wang joined OpenAI in 2024 after dropping out from Harvard, where he was pursuing a computer science degree. At OpenAI, he co-authored research on using AI models to automate and accelerate scientific discovery. Sources indicate the new startup may focus on AI models that identify new uses for existing drugs or medications that previously failed in trials.
The funding discussions reflect renewed investor interest in applying AI to life sciences breakthroughs. Recent comparable raises include Chai Discovery's $400 million round at $3.8 billion valuation and Google DeepMind spinout Isomorphic Labs' $2.1 billion Series B in May.