AI researchers reckon with the $1.5 million ‘academia tax’
An analysis by the National Bureau of Economic Research reveals that top AI researchers in the private sector earn significantly more than their academic counterparts, creating a '1.5 million dollar tax' for those who stay in universities. Despite the pay gap, many academics remain in research roles for the freedom to pursue long-term projects and the opportunity to mentor students.
Why it matters
The brain drain from academia to private industry poses long-term risks to the sustainability of fundamental scientific research in AI.
Ben Deighton is a freelance writer based in London.
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Bluesky Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Whatsapp X Find a new job Save article View saved research Artificial-intelligence researchers say that the idea of leaving academia is tempting, but some nevertheless resist the move. Credit: Jay Janner/The Austin American-Statesman via Getty
If you’re looking to make money with your skills in artificial intelligence, academia isn’t the most lucrative destination. The National Bureau of Economic Research in Cambridge, Massachusetts, conducted an analysis 1 of AI researchers and identified those with similar specialisms across academia and the private sector. They found that the top 1% of industry authors earn US$1.5 million more per person every year than do their academic counterparts.
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