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Jesse Thaler appointed director of MIT Laboratory for Nuclear Science

Jul 7, 2026
AI Summary

Jesse Thaler has been appointed as the new director of the MIT Laboratory for Nuclear Science, effective August 1. He succeeds Bolek Wyslouch and aims to integrate AI-driven research approaches into the lab's projects.

Jesse Thaler appointed director of MIT Laboratory for Nuclear Science
  • Jesse Thaler is a theoretical particle physicist with expertise in quantum field theory and machine learning.
  • He has previously served as the inaugural director of the NSF AI Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Fundamental Interactions (IAIFI), which has recently been renewed for five more years.
  • Thaler's research focuses on particle jets at the Large Hadron Collider and the application of AI in fundamental physics.
  • He plans to enhance the collaborative nature of research at the Laboratory for Nuclear Science, which has been in operation since 1946.
  • Thaler aims to implement educational and research initiatives that foster interdisciplinary connections among young scientists.
  • He will also oversee the Center for Theoretical Physics at MIT, which has received significant philanthropic support for theoretical physics research.
  • Thaler holds a PhD from Harvard University and joined the MIT faculty in 2010.
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