The Biden administration has appointed Elizabeth Kelly, a top White House aide, to lead the newly established AI Safety Institute at the National Institute for Standards and Technology. Kelly, currently serving as an economic policy adviser for President Joe Biden, played a pivotal role in crafting the executive order that established the institute. Lael Brainard, director of the White House National Economic Council, commended Kelly for shaping the president’s agenda on tech and financial regulation, emphasizing her ability to build broad coalitions of stakeholders.
The AI Safety Institute’s mandate includes developing “red team” testing standards for major AI developers by July to ensure the safety of AI systems for consumers and businesses. These safety tests are seen as essential for fostering trust and wider adoption of AI technology. Despite recent federal requirements for AI companies to conduct tests, there is a lack of universal standards, which the institute aims to address.
Kelly’s background includes experience in the Obama White House and at the financial company Capital One, showcasing her diverse expertise in both government and private sectors. Her appointment underscores the administration’s recognition of the importance of AI safety and regulation. With Kelly at the helm, the institute is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI development and deployment in the United States.
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