Carina Hong: Neolabs Redefine the Talent War

Neolabs: A New El Dorado for AI Researchers

At the The Long Play event organized by Business Insider, Carina Hong, founder of Axiom Math, highlighted a growing phenomenon in the world of artificial intelligence: the appeal of neolabs for researchers. These emerging laboratories, like Axiom Math, specialize in developing AI systems capable of solving complex mathematical problems through advanced reasoning.

Carina Hong shared that many talents from major tech companies are now choosing to join neolabs. She emphasized that these researchers, often industry veterans, are drawn to the more flexible and innovative work environment offered by these new structures.

An Alternative to Traditional Corporate Culture

Hong explained that researchers often become weary of the corporate culture at tech giants, characterized by rigorous performance evaluation processes, such as the PSC (Performance Semi-Annual Check) practiced at Meta. This process involves peer and manager evaluations, which can become burdensome for some.

She added that researchers seek a different kind of job security. They want to operate in an environment where the direction of their research does not change constantly, allowing them to work on projects with a lasting impact.

Attractive Salaries and Ambitious Projects

AI companies, whether startups like OpenAI or giants like Meta, offer very competitive salaries to attract top talent. Axiom Math, for example, stands out with its AI systems capable of solving complex mathematical problems and generating detailed proofs while verifying their own reasoning. Hong specified that the goal is to use this mathematical reasoning to create more powerful AI, with potential applications in software verification, finance, and cryptography.

Axiom Math: A Success Story Among Neolabs

Founded about a year ago, Axiom Math is part of a new wave of startups, the neolabs, that are gaining traction in the AI sector, particularly in San Francisco. These companies are characterized by small, agile teams that develop AI products from their inception. They often operate with fewer employees, flexible workspaces, and significantly lower operating costs than traditional startups.

In March 2026, Axiom Math reached an impressive valuation of $1.6 billion, illustrating the potential and growing appeal of neolabs in the AI ecosystem.