Jason Pruet

Jason Pruet began his academic journey with a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of California, San Diego. Under the mentorship of George Fuller, a protégé of Willy Fowler, his dissertation focused on gamma-ray bursts, with an emphasis on understanding the weak processes involved in their engines and fireballs. This research contributed valuable insights into the complex mechanics underlying one of the universe's most powerful phenomena.

Postdoctoral Research at Lawrence Livermore

Following his graduation, Jason joined Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a postdoctoral researcher. Here, he was involved in a SciDAC Supernova grant and later became the group leader for computational nuclear physics. His research at LLNL focused on national security missions, including stockpile stewardship, the detection of clandestine nuclear materials, and forensic attribution. His work helped refine technologies critical for atomic security and detection.

Shift to Public Service

In 2011, Jason Pruet transitioned to public service in Washington, D.C., joining the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). His early years at NNSA focused on overseeing nuclear stockpile assessments and modeling, managing the Primary Assessment Campaign, and coordinating the Physics and Engineering Models Campaign. His leadership in launching the Capabilities for Nuclear Intelligence program, which integrated national laboratory expertise into intelligence operations, was a significant milestone in his career.

In 2013, Jason became Chief of an intelligence branch within the DOE Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, where he led efforts to assess foreign nuclear weapons programs. His work in establishing the Foreign Nuclear Weapons Intelligence Initiative earned him prestigious awards, including recognition from the Secretary of Energy and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

Leadership at Los Alamos National Laboratory

After nearly a decade in Washington, D.C., Jason moved to Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). There, he played a crucial role in managing the Advanced Simulation and Computing (ASC) program, ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile without underground testing. Additionally, Jason helped establish the National Security AI Office at LANL, an initiative designed to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, national security, and scientific research. As the founding director, he led efforts to ensure the nation was prepared for the transformative potential of AI while addressing its associated risks.

A New Chapter at OpenAI

In 2025, Jason Pruet joined OpenAI as a full-time member of the technical staff, joining the Mission Alignment team. His role at OpenAI involves ensuring that AI development aligns with the broader goal of benefiting humanity. Jason collaborates with researchers, policymakers, and nonprofit organizations to shape the future of AI that addresses societal challenges, promotes global well-being, and minimizes harm.

Select Publications and Contributions

Jason has made significant contributions to both scientific research and national security through his publications. Some of his notable works include:

"Nucleosynthesis in Gamma-Ray Burst Accretion Disks": This paper explored the synthesis of heavy elements in black-hole accretion disks, advancing our understanding of nucleosynthesis in the context of gamma-ray bursts.

"Detecting Clandestine Material with Nuclear Resonance Fluorescence": Jason contributed to the development of innovative techniques for detecting hidden nuclear materials, thereby strengthening nonproliferation efforts worldwide.

"The Future of HPC in Nuclear Security": This work provided insights into the potential of high-performance computing to support nuclear security missions, highlighting the role of advanced computing in maintaining global safety.

"Advanced Research Directions in AI for Science, Energy, and Security (AI4SES)": This roadmap, co-authored by Jason, outlined the critical role AI will play in addressing future national security, energy, and scientific challenges.

Jason Pruet’s career spans diverse domains, from astrophysics and nuclear security to artificial intelligence and national defense. His interdisciplinary expertise continues to make a significant impact in both the scientific and policy-making communities.

Learn more from Jason Pruet,  please visit here:

https://jasonpruet.com/ai-international-security-paper-jason-pruet

https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=FJr92koAAAAJ&hl=en